About the Indiana Writers Center

At the Indiana Writers Center (IWC), we believe everyone has a unique story to tell; and our goal is simple: to help you tell it. For more than 30 years we have worked to foster a vibrant writing community in Indiana, providing education and enrichment opportunities for both beginning and accomplished writers. Located in the Cultural Complex of the Indianapolis Art Center in Broad Ripple, we offer a variety of classes and workshops led by some of Indiana’s best writers. In addition, we host literary events such as readings, focus groups, and the annual Gathering of Writers to instruct, inspire, and connect writers throughout the state.

The IWC also provides community outreach programs in schools, community organizations, nursing homes and correctional facilities, helping people of diverse ages and backgrounds to find their voices. Read more about our outreach initiatives here.

Over thirty years ago, writer and teacher Jim Powell envisioned a vibrant writing community in Indiana and went on to found the Indiana Writers Center in 1979. Powell served as the director of the IWC for twenty years. Under his leadership, the organization grew from a small community group into a professional nonprofit organization. Powell instituted weekly classes, weekend workshops, monthly readings and The Flying Island, a magazine featuring Indiana Writers. Some of the authors who have visited over the years include W.S. Merwin, Galway Kinnell, Mark Strand, Mary Oliver, Lisel Mueller, Charles Simic, Thomas Mallon, Tim O’Brien and Rita Dove.

Today Executive Director Barbara Shoup, with the assistance of an outstanding staff, dedicated volunteers and an active Board of Directors, has expanded Powell’s original vision. Added to the growing list of classes, publications and educational opportunities within the IWC, are outreach programs, which serve the community. Hundreds of members across Indiana now benefit from the ever-evolving IWC.   

The mission of the Indiana Writers Center: to nurture a diverse writing community, to support established and emerging writers, to improve written and verbal communication and to cultivate an audience for literature in Indiana.

Programs, services, and venue selections reflect our commitment to this mission and to broadening our base as well. More than ever before, the Indiana Writers Center is forging new collaborative relationships with arts organizations, schools and universities, community organizations and social service providers.