In 2012, at a writing group in Fayetteville, Arkansas, a collective of professional creatives discussed the flaws with the current publishing system, lamenting problems that have plagued artists of all media for ages.

Throughout history, artists have struggled to stand and live on the product of their craft alone. Many have had to turn to a sponsor or benefactor, relinquishing ownership of the creative process and the art itself. This can be a blessing, where both parties exist symbiotically. Other times it isn’t, and the artist ends up being exploited and discarded. The ratio between the two is far from balanced.

In this day, potential patrons are a dime a dozen. Some are legit, truly desiring to foster art and take care of those who make it. Many others are not and seek only to exploit the artists for their own profit. Right or wrong, these people and companies shape the cultural marketplace. They decided who got a chance, who became famous… and who did not.

This is where we decided to step in. Why? Because we’re artists. We’ve been there. And we were determined to make a difference. On January 18, 2013, Oghma Creative Media was officially formed.

From the beginning, Oghma was determined to level the playing field by using our talents, platform, and work ethic to give every artist a fair shot. We never chose writers based on pre-existing fame or industry experience. We wanted to give all authors the same opportunities, and we were ready to roll up our sleeves and help out.

In the early days, we were almost a co-op, helping authors whether they were seeking a contract or preferred to blaze their own paths. Our innovative operations caused us to grow quickly. Exponentially.

With our small numbers, that wasn’t sustainable. It required change.

Oghma Creative Media transformed into Roan & Weatherford, a small press with big heart who’s making a huge impact in publishing. We’re out of the à la carte services game, but that just allows us to devote all our efforts to our contracted authors.

Throughout our journey, we never lost sight of where we began. We originally chose the name “Oghma” because Oghma is the Celtic god of communication, writing, and eloquence. Our name may have changed, but those ideals never did. And they never will.