we write from prompts
built to get the
mind and pen moving in
NEW DIRECTIONS.
we scatter momentary stories
and create a
SKY FULL OF STARS.
as the sky fills,
CONNECTIONS and PATTERNS
reveal themselves.
we discover insights
and larger stories,
MOMENTUM and MEANING.
About Us
Constellations classes are all about the power of personal expression through writing.
What sets us apart from most classes is that we leave behind academic rules, editing, and critiquing. Instead, we focus on writing as a creative adventure.
We gather to lean into exploration.
We dive inward and expand outward.
We play and think.
We learn from published authors as we go.
We try new things and break the rules.
We wander and ramble.
And in the process, we write masterpieces.
About You
You belong here if you are…
––
a first time writer or a longtime author
––
a story teller, journal keeper, poet, memoirist, sentiment-in-the-birthday-card person, or grocery list maker
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planning to print your work for readers, or want to write privately for only yourself
––
“working through some stuff,” as they say
––
having trouble finding time to write in a busy life
––
in a rut, on a roll, curious, or a lil’ bit afraid
You have a writing voice because you have thoughts.
Letting your thoughts spill through a pen and onto paper gives your voice to your sky.
It’s as simple and as magical as that.
Seasoned writers always need a place to generate new material by interacting with people who kindle ideas and enthusiasm.
Every beginner deserves a place to find their voice without pressure or competition, with supportive classmates who value their fresh perspective.
About Our Classes
“I write to find out what I am
thinking and what it means.”
– Joan Didion
Constellations classes can be roughly divided into two genres:
CREATIVE WRITING and INTUITIVE WRITING.
The two integrate in many ways despite resting on different approaches. You are never required to take classes in both, but doing so will expand the way you understand and interact with your own writing process.
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CREATIVE WRITING classes are all based in multiple short writing exercises fueled by prompts. Exploration and imagination reign here.
We practice writing in community. Solo writing time is important, but no one can maintain a creative life in a vacuum. Interaction with other writers generates energy, ideas, and encouragement that we don’t have access to when we write alone.
We write for a bit, read our pieces for a bit (if you wish to), and have organic conversations as they arise. Along the way, we reference books and advice from leading authors, learning as we go.
We take adventures, try out new formats, and make shiny messes. Sometimes we are geniuses, sometimes we do belly flops, and we know that both are a valuable part of our practice.
We watch little galaxies evolve. Disparate plots begin to connect into a larger story, characters are created over here that develop nicely in settings over there, personal memoir weaves richly into unrelated fiction, narratives become poetic.
We break the rules. A lot.
We learn from and inspire one another. A lot. -
INTUITIVE WRITING classes are all about examining the science of what makes your inner Self tick… from the neurons of your brain, to the emotions in your gut, to your “little voice inside” that asks you to tune in and listen.
Weekly materials cover the neuroscience of how our brains store and process information, and how the act of writing changes the structure of the brain in ways no other modality can. This practice uses writing as a vehicle, rather than a destination.
Exercises guide you to write through your own inner terrain and have conversations with yourself, your internal compass, and your personal north star. You will learn to understand your mind better, listen to and trust yourself, build on your natural strengths, and work through your resistance points.
Connecting your own dots and embracing your authenticity leads to improved well-being, confidence, creativity, and relationships with ourselves and the world around us.
You are in charge of your own process here; you get to choose where you do and don’t want to venture in your writing. It is important to note that this self-directed process is not clinical therapy and is not intended to replace working with a licensed therapist.
meet and learn
more about Tammy
Browse Classes
& Enroll
Classes range from single session workshops to courses of six weekly sessions.
The majority of courses take place via Zoom, so you can join us from literally anywhere in the world. Adjust your clock for U.S. Central time zone.
Select offerings are in person, in Minneapolis, providing an opportunity to do some hands-on exercises and enjoy the unique vibe of shared space that is its own treat in our increasingly screen-based world.
Gift Cards
Give someone the gift of a Constellations class… or remind someone that they should gift you one.
Gift cards are electronic and redeemable in any cart here. You can have one delivered directly to the recipient’s email, or to your email if you wish to create your own hands-on delivery.
Partner with Us
Constellations is eager to bring writing workshops and classes into the community, whether at your Twin Cities Metro location or remotely via Zoom.
I can tailor materials to fit many needs, whether you are business, nonprofit, or education based. Anywhere there are people, those people deserve to grow.
meet and learn
more about Tammy
There is no need for anyone to be “a writer.” In fact, those who have never written before often benefit the most.
All our work rests on exercises that encourage relaxing into an open mind and letting the pen record thoughts as they come, however they come, without evaluation or judgment.
Email your ideas and needs to tammy@constellations-writing.com. Together we can come up with an exciting plan.
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INTUITIVE WRITING is extremely at home in organizations that provide social and individual support, anywhere people help others or themselves. Courses can be tailored for clients or staff, in programs of any type. Participants explore and develop new relationships with the things they carry, and come away with an increased sense of validation, wisdom, confidence, and self-agency.
You may be surprised by how well CREATIVE WRITING fits with traditional businesses. From prompts, participants funnel their thoughts onto paper, generating responses that are very different from those they give verbally. This process is valuable for any business that wants to encourage their people to grow into confidence with self-expression, become more receptive to others’ perspectives, and widen their approach to problem solving.
Combining Intuitive and Creative Writing is the best of both worlds together, and is especially my niche.
Email Us
Ask a question or offer an idea.
Drop a request for a class that isn’t currently offered.
Partner with us to bring a tailor-made Constellations course or workshop to your organization or business.
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