by Sam Pierstorff
As we step into a new year, many of us set resolutions about health, balance, or productivity. But if your resolution is to be more creative—and to feel more connected to your community—the Modesto Artists Movement invites you to gather at the Queen Bean Coffee & Social House this January for a full slate of literary, artistic, and spoken-word events.
Few things are more essential than creativity and communication. They help us process the world, tell our stories, and feel less alone. Our Write Night (Wednesday, January 14) is a free, community-based creative writing experience where prompts are shared, writers reflect together, and participants are encouraged to be both safe and brave. No experience required. Bring your courage, creativity, and curiosity and come write with us.
On Art Night (Thursday, January 22), bring your favorite craft, your pens and ink, your sketchbook, or laptop, and create alongside others who simply want to make art without an agenda. No pressure. No expectations. Just time, space, and community.
We’ll also host Comedy Night (Tuesday, January 20), because laughter matters. Life is full of grief and joy at the same time, and learning to speak the language of laughter is just as important as learning to name our emotions. Whether you’re there to laugh or to take the mic, Tuesday Night Open Mic Comedy is a great night to relax and release some of life’s tension through humor.
Finally, Slam on Rye, Modesto’s Monthly Poetry Slam (Wednesday, January 28) features a special birthday celebration for renowned poet Simply Kat, visiting from Los Angeles. Up to 12 local poets can sign up to slam with a chance to win $250. Randomly selected judges from the audience will hold up Olympic style scorecards to determine the winner. It’s a wild ruckus poetry train and you should get on board.
Modesto is quietly becoming a hub for Central Valley artists. But that future depends on participation. We need your art. We need your voice. We need your support, and we need more than ever, your unabashed courage to believe that Modesto will be the next great city of art in America! So let’s keep creating!
