Wordsmithery*

Wordsmithery is an independent literary arts organisation and publisher run by Sam Hall and Barry Fentiman Hall. Sam and Barry have both been writing since childhood; Wordsmithery was founded with the aim of encouraging more people to get into writing and reading, and to work on interesting literary projects with individuals and community groups. 

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Wordsmithery is regularly commissioned to devise and deliver community engaged creative literary activities. Delivering these commissions often includes involving other creatives and partners. Commissioners have included Medway Council, Lyrici Arts, Icon Theatre, The Rochester Riverside Community Board, Electric Medway and Margate Festival.

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Since starting Wordsmithery, Sam and Barry have managed over 100 literature projects and events in Kent and London: engaging with over 15,000 people. Projects range from open mics; to interactive literary games; writing workshops; The WordShed - possibly the world's smallest writing retreat; a regular theatre showcase and regular live literature events in Chatham; 'Roundabout Nights' and 'The Confluence Sessions'. 

We have also curated and directed literary festivals, including Welcome to Cloisterham (2021, 2022) and The Rainham Poetry Festival (2022) and Medway River Lit (2023).

 

Sam is as a playwright and former journalist and editor, and she has experience of both publishing production and literature development (helping people to develop their writing). Barry is a poet with an interest in site specific writing.

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Have a look at our Ten years of Wordsmithery book to see the range of our projects and experience!

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