The Matchbook Memoir project is based on the idea that we can develop community by simply sharing our personal stories with one another in an anonymous-optional, yet public format that encourages meaningful reaction through the interaction with a tangible object—a miniature book that looks like a matchbook.

The idea is to engage the public in a simple and meaningful publishing project that features the personal stories of the people in our community. The project would consist of a 2-day bootcamp where a group of local writers, artists, and community members and leaders would work together to produce 1,000 (minimum) simple matchbooks in two formats (one geared for writing short narratives and the other geared toward more visual graphic narrative) to be distributed to a consenting group of local businesses and cultural community centers (bars, coffee shops, independent book stores, local art centers, and small museums, nonprofits or other community cultural organizations willing to participate) in Northwest Arkansas.

We would distribute blank matchbooks in a package that would include a vessel to hold the blank and finished matchbooks, simple instructions for participation, and examples for inspiration. If successful, we would conclude with an exhibition featuring the matchbooks.