Seattle Civic Poet

The City of Seattle is launching a new program: Civic Poet. Applications are due by May 28, and a selection will be made by the end of July.

From the press release:

The new two-year Civic Poet post will serve as a cultural ambassador for Seattle’s rich, multi-hued literary landscape and will represent Seattle’s diverse cultural community. In addition to five annual performances, the Civic Poet will also complete hands-on work with communities to engage constituents city-wide.

The Civic Poet program is administered by the city’s Office of Arts & Culture. For more information, visit http://www.seattle.gov/arts/funding/civic_poet.asp.

Washington State Poet Laureate

I’ll hand the baton on to the next Washington State Poet Laureate in early 2016, and the application period is now open to determine who (whom? I can never keep that straight) I’ll hand it to.

Again, from the press release:

The Poet Laureate serves to build awareness and appreciation of poetry — including Washington’s legacy of poetry — through public readings, workshops, and presentations in communities throughout the state. The new Laureate will serve from Feb. 1, 2016, to Jan. 31, 2018.

Washington joined several other states in appointing an official state Poet Laureate in 2007. The position is sponsored by ArtsWA and Humanities Washington, with the support of Gov. Jay Inslee.

Selection of the Washington State Poet Laureate is governed by state regulation. To be considered, applicants must meet all eligibility requirements and submit an application online. Applications must be submitted electronically by 5 p.m. on Friday, July 31.

More information here, and of course I’m happy to talk with anyone who’s considering applying.