Poets not Presidents began as a small nugget of alliterative truth, hewn from a larger base of underground art and social consciousness. As a movement and cooperative, it represents a seismic shift in perspective, boldly stating that the vision of the artist is equal and often surpasses the self serving intentions of policy makers.

In the year 2003 the Poets Not Presidents collaborative started when local screen printer, poet, and publicist Kirk Parker, met the immensely talented artist John Walls at a local Hip Hop show featuring 3 time Sammy award winner Crazy Ballhead.

This symbiotic collaboration ignited a mixture of keen intellect and natural philanthropy, initially establishing a website, newsletter, and many successful Second Saturday shows.

The odyssey of it’s existence is comparable to the passing of an Olympic Torch of talent and intelligence. Smoothly moving through the ranks of local artist, poets and musicians such as Illyanna Maisonet, Charisse Fitzer, Kai Vittore, Stephen Offeman and Marc Doutherd have taken their turn at the creative wheel and lent their time and passion to this collective. Googling any of these names is sure to bring up some of the best work you’ve ever seen. 

The mindset of this group has nothing to do with a quest for fame. We believe in the precept stated by one Immortal Technique, "Universal Laws are not measured in Mass Appeal." Amongst this group you'll find no inside politrickin' or hidden agendas to keep their fellow crab brethren at the bottom of the bucket.

In the future Poets Not Presidents will continue the journey through Second Saturday shows in Midtown Sacramento, just off the corner of 24th and K. 

Check out our latest newsletter "Just Around Midtown". A Newsletter by Local Artists United in a Movement for Change.

Monthly Newsletter

August '04
PDF File of Newsletter

July'04
PDF File of Newsletter

Learn more about the collective at:

www.myspace.com/poetsnotpresidents