Best West Virginia town for writers or artists? (Charleston, Huntington: home, movie theater)

[Chuck_G]

Originally Posted by LilyLaLa

Thanks Chuck! I used to belong to several online writers discussion groups, then realised I was wasting HOURS socialising online when I should have been writing . I tried online critique groups too, but was never comfortable sending my work to someone I didn't know personally, and not knowing what who was on the other end really.

I *much* prefer in-person groups. But you're right: being a rural writer can be a lonely thing!

What's your genre/specialty? Mine are YA and mainstream single title; some short stories occasionally too to help pay bills.

Hi LilyLaLa,
I write short stories in a lot of genres. I've had several horror stories and a couple of mysteries published in small press magazines and ezines. It's mostly for exposure, being small press they don't pay a lot. You might want to check out writersbbs, though. Just lurk for a while to see what's going on. They have a YA and a children's forum. They really are some nice people, and very helpful. My screen name over there is blindcat4 if you happen to check it out.

[David Kennedy]

Do you publish on line?

[Retired Navy]

I don't consider myself a writer but I did write a book that was published by Fox Chapel Publishing. It's a "How To" instructional book on creating wooden portraits using a scroll saw. Only Scrollers would find it interesting or of use but I'm proud of it. Did all of the "in process" photography myself. Lots of step by step photos and instruction. Took about a year to complete and was actually a lot of fun. I've also done several articles for one of their magazines.

[LilyLaLa]

Originally Posted by Chuck_G

Hi LilyLaLa,
I write short stories in a lot of genres. I've had several horror stories and a couple of mysteries published in small press magazines and ezines. ... You might want to check out writersbbs, though.

I love writing shorts and trying new genres, but you're right---it doesn't pay a whole lot. But when a novel's stuck, a few stories can be a good break. And they're fun!

Thanks for the link--but I'm resisting so far! I'm undisciplined enough as it is, for a writer with three kids to feed...the last thing I need is a good discussion forum to hide from work on! ( like this one!!)

[LilyLaLa]

Originally Posted by Retired Navy

I don't consider myself a writer but I did write a book that was published by Fox Chapel Publishing. It's a "How To" instructional book on creating wooden portraits using a scroll saw.

Wow!! That's a skill I love; my father was a woodworker.

I once bid on a wood portrait of the Virgin Mary on eBay--it was gorgeous and I was intrigued with the skill and time it must have taken. Couldn't afford it in the end.

I'm impressed, RN.

[Retired Navy]

Originally Posted by LilyLaLa

Wow!! That's a skill I love; my father was a woodworker.

I once bid on a wood portrait of the Virgin Mary on eBay--it was gorgeous and I was intrigued with the skill and time it must have taken. Couldn't afford it in the end.

I'm impressed, RN.

Thanks!!! I really appreciate that.

[Threerun]

Stumbled on an article in the State Journal regarding a WV small publishing firm in Chapmanville. It's a nice story and worth a read:

The State Journal - News for West Virginia's Leaders

CHAPMANVILLE -- There seem to be more stories in West Virginia than mountains. But aspiring writers in the Mountain State often have trouble getting their stories into print in a state with few book publishers.
Now they have another option.

[LilyLaLa]

Thanks Threerun--good to know! And now I want a look at their 'Legends' too--I love hearing local stories, especially ghost stories. Will look for a copy when I get there.

[damonwv]

I live in the Eastern pan handle of WV, and im an artist, but its not a money maker where im at. I think i need to try to sell my paintings more near a big city.

[LilyLaLa]

Hi Damon; I'd love to hear more about your work--is it landscape, abstract, or...?

From personal experience (including friends and family) there's never enough money in selling originals locally, no matter where you live: small towns don't have the population for sales, and cities have too much competition for customers. But submitting to greeting card companies, magazine covers, and children's publishers for illustration commissions--all of it combined with local sales can make a living wage.

We've had a bit of luck approaching local diners, cafes, bootstores etc, too, exhibiting work on the wall with a small tag on each one, indicating its sale price: the restaurant owner gets free art and we get exposure and occasional sales.

I think the trick to making a living as an artist is to follow the recent trend of 'multiple income streams' -- lots of little incomes (including yard sales, tutoring, and private commisions like murals) provides more money and more security.

Are you full-time, or do you have a day job too?