Marysville resident and published poet Diane Funston will host the writers’ events. Photo courtesy of Yuba Sutter Arts & Culture

MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - The Burrows Center for the Arts is rapidly becoming a “hot spot” for arts programs in Yuba County and beyond.

The newest event being added to the monthly roster includes the “Spill the Ink Writers’ Open Mic” for writers as well as listeners who are interested in all aspects of the written word. Hosted by Marysville resident and published poet, Diane Funston, writers across all genres are invited to share their work in a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental space at this free twice monthly event. 

The open mics will be held on the second and fourth Mondays of the month beginning from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Feb. 10 in the Gallery at the Burrows Center for the Arts, 624 E St. in Marysville. 

Funston has been a Poet-in-Residence for Yuba Sutter Arts & Culture. She created and facilitated Poetry Square, a monthly live online poetry reading featuring three poets plus herself reading their own work. Funston holds a degree in Literature and Writing from CSU San Marcos and has been published in a variety of anthologies. “Over the Falls” is her poetry chapbook from Foothills Publishing.

This will not be a critique session, but rather a meeting of the minds for those who enjoy trying the written work they’ve stashed away in a drawer or read only to their dog, to come join other writers and read out loud and share ideas and commiserate with other lovers of the written and spoken word. The group is open to writers of poetry, stories, plays, creative nonfiction, parts of novels, memoir or comedy.

In other words, writers are welcome to present anything they have put down on paper or memorized.  Non-writer listeners are welcome to enjoy the readings as well. Writers love and need an audience. The program is open to all writers or listeners eighteen and older as some pieces may not be suitable for younger ages. It goes without saying that no racist, sexist, homophobic or other hurtful material will be allowed.

Open mic events for poets and writers are vital to fostering creativity, community, and cultural expression. These meet ups create a welcoming space for individuals to share their thoughts, stories, and emotions in a supportive environment. For emerging writers and poets especially, open mics provide a platform to test their work, gain confidence, and receive immediate feedback from a live audience. Beyond individual benefits, open mic nights build a sense of belonging. They gather people from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for the written and spoken word.

This exchange of ideas promotes empathy and understanding, as participants and listeners are exposed to varying perspectives and experiences. They often spotlight underrepresented voices, ensuring inclusivity and a richer cultural landscape. In essence, open mics empower individuals, enrich communities, and celebrate the transformative power of words.

Other regular arts events currently being hosted at the Burrows include the Art Fix & Mix creative collaborative on the first and third Mondays of the month and the Ceramics for Veterans program every Thursday. Go to yubasutterarts.org for information about these and other Yuba Sutter Arts & Culture programs and events.