02/05-03/07 the McNay Museum - 2025 National Poetry Month Ekphrastic Poetry Contest

Poetry month is just around the corner! We partnered with local poets and other art institutions to invite you to draw inspiration from artworks.

Submit a poem written in response to Joan Mitchell’s Hudson River Day Line from our collection. If you win, your poem will be shared in April to celebrate National 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 (13 – 17); Youth (12 and under).


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).
All winning poems will be posted on websites throughout April, National Poetry Month.


**Save the Date:**
There will also be an Ekphrastic Celebration Reading by winning poets at Ruby City on Saturday, April 5 at 10 a.m.