Application Deadline! The Art of the Short Story: Writing Masterclass with Lori Ostlund
Monday, Jun 1 | All Day
Join us for a masterclass on the art of the short story with author Lori Ostlund, 2025 O. Henry Prize winner and series editor of the Flannery O’Connor Award for Short Fiction. Designed for experienced fiction writers, this half-day retreat offers a rare opportunity to receive feedback from a seasoned author while connecting to fellow local fiction writers. Attendees have the opportunity to continue honing their craft in the new short story writers’ group at Mechanics’ Institute.
Application Process
To apply, submit:
- A 1,000-1,500 word writing excerpt via this application form:Apply Here! (this will be the piece reviewed in the workshop)
- [Optional] A brief summary of your writing experience, including relevant background or training (250-word maximum)
Applications will be reviewed to select a small group of dedicated writers (10 participants) for this intimate, high-level workshop.
Who Should Apply?
This masterclass is intended for experienced fiction writers, whether through formal education, independent study, or a dedicated personal practice. Participants are not required to have published work in order to participate. Participants should be comfortable sharing and engaging deeply with 1,000-1,500 words of original work.
Key Dates
- June 1: Applications due
- by June 15: Selected participants notified
- June 17: Registration fees paid via Eventbrite or in-person at Mechanics' Institute
- June 20: Masterclass from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm
Workshop Fee (Includes Lunch)
Mechanics’ Institute Members: $250
Non-Members: $300
About the Instructor
Lori Ostlund’s novel After the Parade was a New York Times Editors’ Choice, a Barnes & Noble Discover pick and a finalist for the Center for Fiction First Novel Prize and the Ferro-Grumley Award. Her story collection, The Bigness of the World, won the 2008 Flannery O’Connor Award for Short Fiction, the California Book Award for First Fiction, and the Edmund White Debut Fiction Award, and was a Lambda Finalist. Her most recent book is Are You Happy? Lori’s work has appeared in the Best American Short Stories and the PEN/O. Henry Prize Stories as well as in ZYZZYVA, The Kenyon Review, New England Review, and other journals. She is the series editor of the Flannery O’Connor Award for Short Fiction.