Artistic Community
Creating with purpose, together
What is Artistic Community Programming?
Artistic Community Programming is your fun, low-pressure spot to spark creativity, collaborate, and connect with others who love making art. Whether you’re a pro or just figuring things out, you’ll jump into artistic practices with folks from all backgrounds and skill levels—because art is joyful!
From collaborative sessions to creative experiments, our activities are all about exploring together. Collective Brilliance Experience sessions, for example, are all about creating a sense of belonging and sharing ideas in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. There’s no set path; we let our individual goals, collective creativity and support for one another lead the way.
Join us in this welcoming and playful space where your creativity can shine, your contributions matter, and we can build something amazing—together!
Meet Our Program Director Bernie Baktashian
Bernadeta (Bernie) Baktashian joined Empire Arts Collective in 2022 and quickly became an integral part of the team, supporting inclusive performing arts through intentional collaboration and community effort. Bernie is on a mission to create spaces where art sparks connection and celebrates vulnerability, believing that every voice can contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant world.
As Director of Artistic Community Programming, Bernie loves reimagining how we create together, building artistic pathways that are co-created by the community, for the community. Through collaboration, creativity, and shared joy, she creates space for everyone to shine.
Bernie has been performing improv since 2019, and brings energy and a “yes, and” spirit to community building and is a regular cast member of Sacramento’s adventurous improv group, Sharks Barksley. She co-hosts the podcast “Bro, What Are Your Assumptions?” exploring the beliefs that shape our understanding of humanity. Bernie also offers consulting in strategic planning, change management, and culture building, driven by a commitment to equity and collective liberation.
As Board President, Bernie leads with purpose and play, making Empire Arts Collective a welcoming home for artists dedicated to using creativity to build community and inspire change.
Bernie Baktashian
she/her
Artistic Community Program Director, Board President
