Golden Gate Fest Schedule
The schedule for Golden Gate Fest is currently being finalized. Stay tuned for the grand reveal!
Program Descriptions
STAND UP!
What does it mean to find our voice as an author and/or illustrator? How can we develop creative confidence in using it?
Light in the Dark: Time to Write with Joy
As book bans rise and literacy rates fall, the publishing market for little readers has become harder and harder to break through. But we've gotten some consistent feedback from editors on what they're wanting to see right now. And that's fun! Silly books that have fun with the reader. This workshop will dive into the craft of writing with humor; what a funny book is, what to watch out for, and how to have with fun with it all.
From Portfolio to Publishing: Creative Courage in a Professional World
Building a sustainable creative career takes more than strong artwork. It requires clarity of voice, adaptability, and an understanding of how the publishing relationship works. In this session, Sasha Illingworth shares what art directors look for in portfolios and submissions, and how creators at every stage can develop work that grows with their careers.
The Courage to Reimagine
If you have a gem of an idea but need to find the perfect approach, then channel the courage to reimagine. Find your way from a strong premise to an equally strong execution by staying open-minded to changing the structure, POV, narrative focus, and more in your work.
The Writer's Resistance Toolkit: Tips and Tricks for Getting to Work in Tough Times
As children’s book creators we encounter resistance of all kinds, from book bans to procrastination. Sarah Stephens will be presenting a few tricks and tools that can help you push through and get back to the important work at hand
Keep Going: A Workshop for Storytellers
This workshop is designed with the intention to cultivate a safe space where creators feel seen, heard, and encouraged to look at their work in a new way. With almost ten years of editorial experience working on various formats, we’ll talk about the magic of storytelling and how to be courageous and persevere when shaping your stories.
Other topics include:
Brave Pictures: Visual Storytelling That Takes Creative Risks
The Radical Art of Making Books for Children: Writing is Resistance
There's more to come! Please check back soon!