Mission Statement
Poeticas Institute is a nonprofit located in California’s Central Valley . Poeticas Institute is dedicated to community literacy through the written, performing, and other creative arts.
We are committed to utilizing new and existing spaces for the arts keeping all of our programming free or at low cost to the community.
Finally, we seek to embrace, amplify, and uplift all voices in our community, especially those which have been historically excluded. We believe that the only way forward is together and that the arts are integral in creating communities that can thrive. Our promise is also to the artist and the young artist, that there is room in this world for them, their story, and their art.
In addition to writing groups, open mics, improv shows, and crafty literacy activities at community happenings, Poeticas Institute has a flagship event: Poeticas Film Festival! Poeticas Film Festival challenges filmmakers to transform original poetry into microfilms of 5 minutes or less. You can see our annual selections and award winners on our website.
Our Impact in California’s Central Valley
Discover how Poeticas Institute nurtures community literacy through accessible arts programs, empowering participants to express and connect.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Get to know the passionate professionals driving our mission forward.
Tara Rico
Program Director
Steven Van Etten
Creative Coordinator
Mia Gray
Secretary
Discover Events at Poeticas Institute
Explore a vibrant lineup of workshops, open mics, improv shows, and film festivals that celebrate literacy and the arts in California’s Central Valley.
Join Us in Cultivating Creativity and Community
Discover how Poeticas Institute empowers Central Valley residents through accessible arts programs. Join our vibrant community by attending events, participating in workshops, or supporting our mission to inspire literacy and artistic expression.