ROCKLAND — The Solon Center for Research and Publishing has announced a writing contest in conjunction with an exhibit at Gallery Fukurou, 20 Main Street, Rockland.

There are scores of writers in Maine who have not been afforded an opportunity to be published, yet some of their works are gems, according to Solon Center, in a news release. One writer said they don’t have avenues to exhibit as artists do – so they can’t show people their work as readily.

The Solon Center is helping to bridge that divide. By publishing their short stories inspired by art photographs new avenues will organically grow for them, as more people read their work.

In August, Fukurou will host an exhibit of new work from two fine art photographers, Yohaku Yorozuya and Ramona du Houx. Fukurou is The Solon Center for Research and Publishing’s new gallery.

The images will depict Rockland and the coast in its myriad situations, moods and emotions. The combination will marry visual arts with the written word, and help Maine’s creative economy flourish.

The challenge for writers will be to choose one photograph and write a story based on the image. The stories and photographs will be published in book that will be sold during the exhibit, on amazon, in the gallery, and worldwide through Ingram.

Bringing the artistic community together with wordsmiths offers exciting unforeseen collaborations. The Solon Center for Research and Publishing will be there to foster new projects that arise from this pilot initiative.

This is a unique new platform for writers and artists in Maine. 

The photographs to choose from are posted on the website at http://galleryfukurou.com/ writing-contest-at-fukurou- gallery/

“We hope the images will inspire writers,” the release said.

The opening night of the exhibit will also be a book signing night celebration with authors.

Every writer published will receive a free book and promotion of their story on the multiple media platforms.

“Be creative,” said Solon Center for Research and Publishing’s Executive Director, Paul Cornell, in the release. “Let the image speak to you. Let it draw you in. If it stirs a memory, great. If it creates an idea, fantastic. Everything will be read.”

The Guidelines:  All writers must reside in Maine. You may submit more than one story.  All the short stories must be rooted in the photograph the writer selects. Maximum word count of 800 words. Attach your word document, with your name and contact information, or copy and paste your story, in email to duhoux2@tds.net. Electronic submission only. No poetry. Deadline for submissions is May 27. The exhibit will be in August.

 The Solon Center for Research and Publishing is a 501(c)3 nonprofit Maine Public Benefit Corporation that helps build community in Maine and beyond through educational, literary, scientific and artistic means, with publications, research, exhibits, events and other initiatives.

Disclosure, Ramona du Houx is the president of the Solon Center.