Creativity often takes place in solitary spaces. That’s why organizations that offer camaraderie, support and social gatherings are so important.
PHOTOS BY DIANE FEEN
Especially when scrolling screens, Zoom links and podcasts are the norm. That’s what makes these two women’s writing and arts organizations so relevant and rewarding.
You might be able to judge a book by its cover, but not this talented group of women. They each bring something unique and wonderful to the creative mix of talent. Some are writers, others are talented artists, and everyone has a story to tell.
Just being in their company is a special treat.
You may not hear about them on the evening news, but this subculture is driven by a lust for creativity in all forms.
They gather at the Delray Beach Library for Author Fests and Art Exhibits and authors readings. They also attend author readings and support each other at different venues, showcases and tea houses.
At Author Fest (at the Delray Beach Library) members discussed their books and sold signed copies. Each year this event draws local writers and guests and the atmosphere shines brightly with creativity and chatter.
Dr. Brenda Dressler, educator and speaker, brought her book “Sex Toys: Putting the Boom back in the Boomers.” The President of the Boca Branch of National League of American Pen Women also had a welcoming brunch at her house to raise money for achievement awards for young women in the arts. The event was also a chance to network and feel the essence of creative camaraderie.
What’s so special about these creative organizations is their long history (Former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was a member of NLAPW) and their intellectual and social joie de vivre.
It is amazing to see how clever and talented the members are. When listening to readings from their work, it’s natural to want to crawl into the storyline and peek out from the pages of their work.
Author Carol White is an extremely talented writer, playwright and photographer. When she read her book at Alice’s Teapot in Delray, I thought she was revealing her life story. Turns out it was White’s brilliant fiction writing and not a tell-all. White also wrote a short play that was performed at the Delray Beach Playhouse recently.
Member Elaine Bossik’s recent novel, “Body Merchants,” just won an Indie Book Award. And, while listening to novelist Diana Polensky read from her books, It’s like hearing sweet music in literary form.
The mission of this group is to encourage, recognize and promote creative work. It’s also a place for artists, writers and composers to inspire, create and thrive.
The Boca Raton Branch, founded in 1975 (with just 12 members) has grown into one of the largest Pen Women branches in Florida.
The Boca Raton members (of the NLAPW) include writers, novelists, screenplay authors, painters, sculptors, photographers and educators.
“Our mission as a nonprofit organization is to serve our communities through the arts,” said Dressler. “We encourage creative women and support young women pursuing a career in art, writing and music. One opera student at the Palm Beach Opera was awarded $2000.”
Membership in Pen Women requires applicants to demonstrate professional achievement in one of the three classifications: art, letters or music.
Student memberships are also available for women enrolled in college programs related to writing, music, or art.
The Women’s National Book Association is another wonderful group in the publishing world. This organization supports women (and men) authors, publishers, editors, librarians, booksellers and educators.
The South Florida chapter has become a hub for readers, writers and literary professionals who share a passion for storytelling and books.
The local chapter hosts networking events, author programs, literary discussions and community gatherings throughout the year. They co-sponsored the Authors Fests at the Delray library and are a delightful group of creative women.
They have open mic nights, holiday parties for members and celebrate books and the arts. They also have a Summer Solstice potluck event for members.
According to President Angela Page, the organization is preparing to expand programming.
“We’re looking forward to creating more opportunities for literary connections throughout Florida. Books continue to bring people together in important and meaningful ways,” said Page, the author of Enrico G and There’s a Dead Girl In My Yard.
For members of both organizations, the appeal goes far beyond professional advancement or social events. “We believe the arts are essential to preserve culture, encourage dialogue and build stronger communities.”
We agree.
For information or to join the Boca Raton chapter of the National League of Pen Women – contact www.bocapenwomen.org or brendres@aol.com
For Women’s National Book Association S. Fla Chapter: southflorida@wnba-books.org
The WNBA has a Book Swap Member Networking Happy Hour on September 16th at A’LU in Boynton.
