Workshops


IMAGINATION  101

Photo by Jowan Gauthier

"If you’ve ever had the desire to dip your toe in the pool of comic book writing, I can’t imagine a better lifeguard than JM DeMatteis. JM is a master of his craft and has been for over 35 years. Some of the greatest and most influential titles and storylines in the history of comics emanated from his brain. That alone should have you rushing to reserve your seat for Imagination 101, but if you need more reasons, here are a few at random: JM is a patient and respectful mentor who exudes a genuine love for teaching. JM is a wealth of knowledge and the workshop is designed to allow you to ask as many questions as you’d like without judgment or annoyance. We’re in a pandemic, what else are you going to do with that unused travel budget? 

I’ve been a working writer for over 20 years, and even I found plenty to take away from JM’s lessons and advice. The writing exercises are varied, challenging, and will stretch your storytelling skills. Your classmates will surprise, motivate, and inspire you. In fact, a better title for the workshop may well be Inspiration 101. 

If even a small part of you is considering signing up, do it. Trust me, it’ll be way more enjoyable than spending the rest of your life wondering if that unfinished idea you have could’ve been something."
David Baldy, TV writer/producer ("Wilfred," "Deadbeat")


Imagination 101 Online will be returning soon!

Check back for updates!  
 

IMAGINATION  101

Join master storyteller J.M. DeMatteis for a deep dive into the realms of imagination, from the metaphysical to the practical.  We’ll ponder the big questions... 

~ Where do ideas come from?   
~ What part does will play in the creative process?  
~ Is the best writing actually an act of channeling?  
~ Do we create the story or does the story create us?

...and tackle the day-to-day realities of a career writing superhero sagas, fantasy epics and animation:

~
 What’s the difference between “Marvel style” and “full script”?  
~ What’s the value of editors?   
~ How do you handle rejection without jumping out the nearest window?

C
ome prepared to listen—as JMD shares stories and insights gleaned from more than thirty-five years writing comics, television, film and novels—but be prepared to work:  you’ll pitch ideas, dialogue artwork and help create a story from the ground up.  Bring all your questions, too:  this won’t be a brief, two hour seminar.  You’ll have ten hours, over two weekends, to explore your own creativity with J.M. DeMatteis as your guide.

Class size is extremely limited!

For more information:

imaginationworkshops@gmail.com


"The Imagination Workshops are an amazing experience for anyone with a desire to understand and express themselves creatively. It's both practical and inspirational; a nuts-and-bolts examination of developing a story and how to script it, and an almost spiritual exploration of how ideas, experiences, and thoughts rattle around within us and eventually become the fuel for creativity. While it's taught mostly from the perspective of comics, a form of which JM is indisputably a master, the lessons and insights are applicable to any kind of writing, and frankly, day-to-day living. JM creates a supportive, encouraging atmosphere which allows the students to engage in ways which can seem scary, but which allows for deeper, more personal, and more truthful, stories. It's an incredibly fulfilling experience for anyone with a desire to express themselves in any form, whether for professional or personal purposes."
Chris Kipiniak, writer, comic books (Marvel Adventures: Spider-Man, Behemoth) and podcasts (The Truth) 


"Imagination 101 is a thorough workshop that delves into the comic book writing process, from narrative structure to character creation and development. Throughout the classes, not only does J.M. DeMatteis guide students into the complicated, yet wonderful, world of script writing and character study, but he also gives them both the honesty and strength they need to successfully implement their imagination. Anyone who takes this workshop will leave with the desire and conviction to create art.”
Monica M

"An invaluable learning experience. JMD's insights into the medium of comics, and storytelling in general, will make all of your ideas better. You will become a better writer and you will have a lot of fun doing it!” 
Yusuf A


"Imagination 101 is a fantastic class for anyone who is interested in pursuing writing comics/cartoons as a career. We learned more than I could have asked for, from various script types to story structure to learning how to work with an editor and much more. J.M. DeMatteis lead the workshop with unbridled charisma and compassion, answering all questions with general enthusiasm and love for the art. I could not think of a better teacher nor recommend it enough!"

Michael K

"If you are serious about writing, and you need a creative jump start - RUN (don't walk) to this workshop! J.M.'s advice and insights on writing and channeling your artistic self into substantive work are invaluable. I left the workshop feeling inspired by J.M. and my fellow workshop attendees. Imagination 101 is a worthwhile investment, and it has made a lasting impact on my approach to creating and writing - Thank you, J.M.! I can't wait for Imagination 201!"—
Nicole B

"Imagination 101 is an experience I won’t forget! Everyone has a unique take on a story and this workshop reminds you of that. Imagination 101 empowers you to help find your voice. This isn’t a class where you’re told the answers but instead, J.M. guides you to figure them out on your own. I can’t thank J.M. DeMatteis enough for all that we learned in just three days. This workshop is a fun and creative exploration that’ll encourage anyone to type their life away and not regret a second of it!”—
 Cody S

"JM's Imagination 101 is a deep well of storytelling knowledge, and he takes the time to walk you through the process with honesty and integrity.  Everything from 'where do ideas come from' to the mechanics of script-writing is covered, and JM's experience and openness exceeded my expectations.  If you are interested in story, comic scripts, and/or animation, I strongly recommend his workshop!—
David B

"J.M. DeMatteis is not only an amazing writer, but a brilliant teacher, as well.  Through the experience of Imagination 101, his wisdom and guidance have helped re-spark the pilot light of my creativity.  In a mundane world of humdrum mediocrity, he has given me the tools to rediscover the nine year old in me and all the wonder that comes along with it."—
Dave D

“What an amazing experience!  I know that there are hundreds who can benefit from your guidance in honoring our creative selves and I really hope they give themselves this chance to challenge themselves and to go beyond whatever held them back in the past.  This workshop deserves to be a top priority for any potential writer.  I can't thank you enough!"—
Jeff Z

“Mr. DeMatteis taught us a great deal about how to write outlines, scripts (in different styles) and even how to collaborate with other creative minds. The weekend was also packed with precious inside knowledge and the no-pressure and always-positive environment he created has literally jump-started the hesitant writer inside of me.  Thanks, J.M., for encouraging me to write from within—and without fear.”
Rodrigo B  

“It was a great weekend! Can't recommend this class enough. Full of insights and inspiration. I've been writing like a maniac ever since.  Looking forward to Imagination 201, 301, and then sipping scotch on the veranda with the lads from the class as we celebrate our first published works."
Eruch A
"J.M led the workshop with a patient enthusiasm... He made it so intriguing to learn just how his characters came to him, how to tell their stories and how we could tell our own characters' stories.  This was an imaginative, deep exploration into the creative process of character storytelling and creation that was both practical and inspiring. The group dynamic of creating our own storyline right alongside J.M himself was a thrill I will never forget. It was so much fun and went by so fast.  Thank you!"
Joshua K
"Imagine if you will, a place where you can become anyone...be anywhere...do anything. That's just what J.M. DeMatteis and his Imagination 101 workshop empowers you to do.  It's intense. It's laid back.  It's a weekend in an unassuming conference room, but you'll soon find out how to leave the conference room and create your own universe with the power of imagination and will. Also, cheese. Lots of cheese."
Adam M