Writers & Illustrators of the Future Workshop Week
2025 – Day 6

Writers’ Workshop—More Guest Instructors

Contributed by Leah Ning

A Visit from S.M. Stirling

This morning, the writers started off by hearing from Judge S.M. Stirling about research, historical fantasy, and worldbuilding, including useful resources for worldbuilding research. Stirling answered questions about incorporating history and coincidence in fiction, and how to know when it’s time to stop researching and start writing.

A Visit from Orson Scott Card

Next, the writers heard from Orson Scott Card. He spoke about tense and originality in fiction, as well as the importance of having a “why” behind your story. He spent a good deal of time focusing on character development before moving on to dialogue tags and formatting. While he emphasized that rules exist for a reason, he clarified that grammar rules are not always the ones that matter most in storytelling. Speaking about film adaptations, he remarked, “Great works of literature are defenseless against movies.”

A Visit from Kevin J. Anderson, Rebecca Moesta, and Marie Whittaker of WordFire Press

After lunch, Judges Kevin J. Anderson and Rebecca Moesta talked to the writers about building a sustainable writing career. They discussed knowing when to stop editing, keeping your work on the market, and following Heinlein’s rules for writing. They also gave professional advice on how to conduct yourself in the field.

Marie Whittaker followed with a talk on project management for writers, explaining how to use agile methods to manage time and achieve goals throughout a writing career.

A Visit with Martin Shoemaker, Eric James Stone, and Leah Ning

While the judges headed off to rehearse for tomorrow’s event, past winners Martin Shoemaker, Eric James Stone, and Leah Ning spoke to the writers about their career paths after Writers of the Future. They discussed submissions, working with agents, and fielded questions from the current winners.

A Visit from Bill Fawcett

Next, the writers learned about the gaming market from Bill Fawcett (detailed further in the Illustrators’ blog) before breaking for dinner.

Rehearsals

The writers’ final activity of the day was a rehearsal at the Taglyan Complex, where tomorrow’s gala will take place. This was their first real-life glimpse of the venue’s stunning blue ceiling and expansive stage area. By tomorrow, the building and grounds will be in full regalia—and so will the winners. Staff, judges, and winners alike are preparing for the red carpet!

Illustrators’ Workshop—More Guest Instructors

Contributed by Martin L. Shoemaker and Kary English

A Visit from Brian C. Hailes

The illustrators’ morning began with a visit from artist, judge, and past Illustrator winner Brian C. Hailes. He presented his work while speaking about the foundations of art and storytelling. He related the seven elements of art (line, shape, form, space, texture, value, color) to the four elements of story (character, setting, conflict, and problem), encouraging artists to think deeply about narrative as they work. Hailes also addressed fear and risk-taking: “You have to be ready to try, willing to fail, if you want to succeed.”

Laura Freas Beraha on Form in Illustration

In the next session, Judge Laura Freas Beraha spoke about the differences between illustration and fine art. She explained that the illustrator’s job is to raise questions that can only be answered by reading the story. She gave pointers on how to design illustrations that don’t contradict the narrative or spoil the ending.
Laura then led the winners through an illustration exercise based on Jerry Oltion’s story “Hit and Run.” After reviewing their results, she shared her own published illustration for the story.

Craig Elliott on Production Design

Before lunch, Judge Craig Elliott spoke about his work as a production designer for Marvel Studios Animation. He discussed the field of concept art as a career path and concluded with an overview of his personal work outside the studio.

Portfolio Review

The afternoon opened with portfolio reviews. Judges met with illustrator winners—both individually and in groups—to review their portfolios and offer suggestions on markets, promotion, methods, subjects, and more.

A Visit from Bob Eggleton and April Solomon

Next, Illustrator Judge Bob Eggleton and previous winner April Solomon joined for an in-depth conversation about the business of illustration, with a focus on networking at conventions.

Bill Fawcett on Conventions and the Gaming Market

Bill Fawcett, a veteran of both the gaming and publishing industries, spoke about the career benefits of attending conventions. He explained the various sizes and types of conventions, what to expect, and how to present yourself effectively. He also offered advice on what to avoid. Finally, Bill discussed creative opportunities outside of books and magazines—such as in games and software programs.