Melinda Carroll and Nick Belardes at a recent meeting of the Random Writers Workshop. Photo by Terry Telford

By Terry Telford

The Scene Now: Literary Arts

“Talent alone cannot make a writer. There must be a man behind the book; a personality which, by birth and quality, is pledged to the doctrines there set forth, and which exists to see and state things so, and not otherwise.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

While Emerson was undoubtedly speaking of an author as the “man behind the book,” it is true that more than talent makes a writer. Sometimes it takes a swift kick in the butt from someone who has been through the writing process, who has seen and hurdled the obstacles, and who knows the value of having someone shout encouragement along the way.

The Random Writers Workshop was recently created by someone who might aptly be described as a man behind books, as well as one who cares enough to get behind those who aspire to write them. Local author Nick Belardes (“Lords Part One,” “Random Obsessions”) formed the writing group to fill a gap in the literary community in Bakersfield and to serve as a weekly coaching session for writers interested in seeing their name in print. Would-be novelists, poets, bloggers, lit-lovers and the curious are all invited to attend. It is a friendly group, consisting of people with varying degrees of experience, which Belardes coaxes to produce publish-worthy material. Now in its fourth week, the group continues to welcome new members who want to grow and be challenged in their craft.

Local bookseller, Russo’s Books, located at the Marketplace, has aided the effort by allowing the writing group to gather inside the shop each week. Meetings are broken into two segments: A one-hour writing period beginning at 6:30 p.m. followed by a lecture and sharing session beginning at 7:30 p.m. and lasting approximately until closing time at 9 p.m. The writing period is voluntary and there is no cost to participate in the first hour. For those who wish to stay for the remaining class time, the cost is $8.

Valuable lessons on narrative, outlining and beginning a novel have previously been discussed. This week the topic will be dialogue, and next week Belardes will be sharing “Tips on Getting Published.” Writers are also encouraged (but not obligated) to share their work by reading a portion aloud to the group and allowing constructive feedback. Says Belardes, “I believe in helping local creative writing culture grow. Thanks to Russo’s Books, we can do that!”

The Random Writers are currently meeting on Wednesday evenings, however, that day is subject to change in coming weeks. For the most current information, including writing tools, references and photos of past meetings, become a fan of the Random Writers Workshop at www.facebook.com/pages/Random-Writers-Workshop/209799831824

Retro floral painting by Johnny Ramos. Photo courtesy of the artist

The Scene Next: Visual Arts

Bakersfield is ripe for an art explosion. One of its most creative sons, Johnny Ramos, soon begins a new art-venture as he opens Bossanovastudios, which will be located downtown at 814 18^th St. Johnny is a familiar figure to the Bakersfield art scene, having previously exhibited work at various venues including Metro Galleries and the Bakersfield Museum of Art. His work is a favorite of local businesses and art collectors who enjoy his vibrant paintings that often depict whimsical florals and high-energy splashes of color. Though contemporary, his work exudes a retro-feel — not surprising for an artist who admits that his own tastes tend toward all things mid-century modern.

In two weeks, Bakersfield Express will bring you a preview of what to expect at the Jan. 15 grand opening of Bossanovastudios as well as share some insights into the abstract artistry and sublime style of this charming artist. However, to see some of Ramos’ work now, check out the current exhibit at Metro Galleries, 1604 19^th Street. A short walk from Ramos’ new digs, the modern, upscale gallery currently displays some fine examples of Johnny’s bold abstracts. The exhibit, which also features work by artists Dan Slayton and Karoon, is entitled, “Abstract Expression ‘09”, and runs through the month of January. Metro Galleries hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday.