Inkberry Turns Five

On June 10 at 8pm, Inkberry celebrates five years as a nonprofit center for literary arts in the Berkshires. A party at the Cup & Saucer in North Adams, dubbed Inkstravaganza!, promises good, clean literary fun: readings, magnetic poetry, word games and the chance to mingle with some of the writers and artists who’ve appeared at Inkberry’s reading series over the years. It’s a fitting gathering for an organization founded on the idea of artistic community. Inkberry co-founder (and former TWT editor) Rachel Barenblat explains: “As a writer, I felt the lack of a literary arts fenter where I could come together with other writers.” She and two friends started up the organization to fill this lack. “We envisioned a place where writers would gather, where writing workshops would be happening all the time,” says Barenblat. This vision is on the way to being realized: Inkberry’s current offerings include writing workshops (both on-site and online) for various skill levels, readings by nationally and locally known authors, literary salons and youth programs. “There is a myth that writing is a solitary act,” says Barenblat. In fact, she adds, “every time we hear each other, bonds form.”

For tickets or more information, call 413-664-0775, visit www.inkberry.org or stop by Papyri Books on 49 Main St., N. Adams. Tickets are $30 or two for $50.