Industry Talks: Literary Arts Careers for Writers

Join us at Hugo House’s Lapis Theater for Industry Talks: Careers in the Literary Arts, an engaging evening that explores the many professional paths within the world of writing, publishing, and literary production.

This event brings together authors, editors, publishers, literary agents, and other industry professionals for insightful conversations about their work and the evolving landscape of the literary arts. Attendees will gain exposure to the diverse opportunities available across the field—whether in creative writing, editing, marketing, or event programming and learn how different roles contribute to the broader literary ecosystem.

The evening will feature a talk, followed by an open Q&A session and networking opportunities, offering a welcoming space for writers, readers, and anyone passionate about storytelling to connect and exchange ideas.

Who Should Attend:

Members of the public interested in literature, writing, publishing, and creative careers.

Schedule:

6:30 PM : Hugo House Intro

6:35 PM : Industry Professional Intro

6:40-7:40 PM: Lecture

7:45 PM: Q&A

8:00-8:30 PM: Meet and Greet / Networking

Join Clarion West program director (and author) Rashida J. Smith for a conversation about the “day job” road less traveled: a career in literary arts. From journalism and public relations to literary arts organizations, Rashida will discuss balancing writing for others while keeping your creativity thriving, the advantages of a day job in the literary (or other) arts as an artist, and how to find (and keep) the literary arts job of your dreams.

Rashida Smith

Rashida J. Smith is the Program Director at Clarion West. As Jasmine Silvera, she is the author of two fantasy romance trilogies, the Grace Bloods and the Tooth & Spell. She has an unused degree in broadcast journalism, attended the Clarion West Six-Week Workshop in 2005—before serving on the board of directors, and edited the Hugo Award nominated semiprozine Giganotosaurus.