Writing Biographies and Memoirs

This FREE introductory workshop will give you the tools and techniques you need to start writing a biography or memoir. From choosing the format, type of structure, beginnings that hook readers, and using ‘show and tell’ techniques. Bring your idea, writing pad and pens, and enthusiasm. It is open to adults and young adults from high school-aged up.

Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland-based writer Maria Gill has a Masters in Creative Writing and a Graduate Diploma of Journalism Studies, as well as a teaching degree.

She will be in residence at The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora from 2 August to 24 October as part of the Arts Four Creative Residency project, with funding support from Creative New Zealand and the Stout Trust (proudly managed by Perpetual Guardian). She has written over 60 nonfiction books including the award-winning ‘Anzac Heroes’ (2016). ‘Ice Breaker! An Epic Antarctic Adventure (2020), Kate Sheppard: Leading the way for Women (2018), and New Zealand Hall of Fame (2011). She is currently writing a children’s novel on Ōtautahi/Christchurch born scientist Sir Ernest Rutherford, whose laboratory was based at The Arts Centre (then Canterbury College). For more information visit Maria Gill's website.

This event will go ahead if we are under Covid-19 Alert Level 2 restrictions. Numbers will be limited to allow for 1m physical distancing and everyone is asked to bring a mask (unless they have a medical exemption).