National Poetry Month is almost here! We’ve teamed up with local poets and art organizations to inspire you through art. Submit a poem inspired by Wangechi Mutu’s, Living Through Strange Times, from our collection, and currently on view in Irrationally Speaking: Collage & Assemblage in Contemporary Art at Ruby City. If you’re selected, your poem will be featured in April to celebrate Poetry Month

What Is an Ekphrastic Poem?

An ekphrastic poem is one based on a piece of art. These poems take an existing piece of visual art and use written words to describe and expand on the theme of that work of art. Often these poems explore hidden meanings or an underlying story.

What to Submit

Up to two (2) poems that respond to the art (each a maximum of 15 lines plus title). Express how the art puzzles, moves, frightens, enlightens you, etc. Please do not put your name or identifying info on the poem. Do not include artwork image on poem or in email.

How to Submit

Attach one poem per email in a PDF or Microsoft Word doc or docx to EkphrasticPoetryContest1@gmail.com. Subject line should read: Ekphrastic Poetry Contest Submission (YOUTH or ADULT) – (Selected Artwork Title).

Your email must include:

• Title of your poem
• Your name
• City & state
• Phone number
• Email address

***Youth entries must include age.

Contest Deadline: March 7, 2025. Only San Antonio & South Texas adult & youth poets are eligible. Categories: Adults; Youth, ages 13 – 17; Youth, age 12 and under.

Judges

Jim LaVilla Havelin, 2025 National Poetry Month coordinator, Eddie Vega, San Antonio Poet Laureate, and Linda Simone, poet & artist, will select up to three poems per artwork for each category.

Winning Poems

Winners will be notified via email by March 19. By March 21, Winners must attach their winning poem(s) as a PDF in an email to EkphrasticPoetryContest1@gmail.com. Email subject line must read: (ADULT or YOUTH) Winning Poem PDF – (Your Name). Winning poems will be posted on websites throughout April, National Poetry Month.