Gemini Ink believes in the power of the written word to transform lives. We are invested in nurturing creativity in all San Antonians’ lives. Founded in 1992, Gemini Ink is San Antonio’s only independent literary arts center. We address the dynamic needs of San Antonio writers and readers through creative writing workshops, writing labs, author readings, online classes, and more. In the belief that every voice counts, we use literature to seed literacy, nurture long-term academic and life success, provide San Antonio with a diversity of literary voices, and build community. Our programs include: Writers in Communities, Autograph Series, an annual Writers Conference, and Creative Writing Classes.
The Writers in Communities (WIC) program sends professional writers into diverse community settings—such as shelters, schools, neighborhood centers, and detention facilities—to work alongside students of all ages, needs, interests and abilities. WIC writing workshops are always free to participants, and focus on oral traditions, reading, and creative writing.
The Autograph Series presents writers of national and international stature—many of them recipients of major prizes such as the Pulitzer or National Book Award—in free public performances followed by audience Q&A and book signing. The series is partially supported by a ticketed colloquium luncheon with the visiting writer, also including audience Q&A and book signing. Many of the luncheon participants include local high school students whose tables are sponsored by local businesses and corporations. Previous Autograph writers have included Margaret Atwood, Grace Paley, Tim O’Brien, Luis Alberto Urrea, Philip Levine, Sandra Cisneros, and U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera. This year our Autograph Series visiting writer is National Book Award-winning poet Terrance Hayes who will present a free reading on February 28, 2019 at the Laurie Auditorium.
Our summer Writers Conference opens the door to literary and cultural exchange by bringing local, national, and international authors to share their ideas through panels, workshops, readings, and open mic performances. Whether you’re new to writing, seeking to recharge your craft, or looking to make connections, the conference offers three event-packed day, including a small press book fair. Held in July at the El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel, the conference provides
emerging and experienced writers with the opportunity to gather, learn and share their ideas.
We also provide excellent creative writing classes, at our office and online, and many free literary events to the community throughout the year. Our fair cost fee-based workshops are led by professional writers, scholars, and interdisciplinary artists who are passionate about creative writing—from memoir and prose, to poetry and fiction. All of our classes and events create a space for serious artistic, intellectual, and community-spirited dialogue outside of the academic context. They are also designed to accommodate job and family schedules and limited budgets. All classes are eligible for teachers’ continuing education credit.
We believe San Antonio is a legendary city of stories and storytellers, and that writing has the ability to transform lives. If you are interested in attending a class or event, becoming a member or donating to Gemini Ink, please visit geminiink.org. Or follow us on Twitter and Facebook @geminiink.