To coincide with World Poetry Day on March 21 and National Poetry Month in April, the City of Surrey in partnership with Surrey Libraries, Cultural Development Advisory Committee, Surrey Arts Services, Surrey International Writers’ Conference, Arts Council of Surrey, Creative Writing at Simon Fraser University, Semiahmoo Arts and Surrey Muse is seeking applications for the inaugural position of Poet Laureate.
Surrey’s Poet Laureate will act as an ambassador for the city and the people of Surrey, advocating for literacy and the literary arts and helping to raise the status of poetry, language, and the arts in the everyday consciousness of residents.
“We’re delighted to announce the Call for Applications for Surrey’s inaugural Poet Laureate! Many of Canada’s major cities – including Vancouver, Victoria, and Edmonton to name just a few – have Poet Laureates promoting the literary arts and literacy through exciting projects such as poetry slam workshops, art installations, and poetic cookbooks,” says Meghan Savage, Information Services Librarian at Surrey Libraries and Poet Laureate Project Coordinator. “We’re seeking an enthusiastic, creative individual who will engage with the people of Surrey and implement a poetic legacy. This is a fantastic opportunity that will contribute to Surrey’s status as a cultural hub”
During a two- or three- year term, the Poet Laureate will engage with the people of Surrey through readings, civic interactions, and community projects.
Submissions will be evaluated by a committee comprised of peer representatives and representatives from the partnership groups. The selection process is coordinated by Surrey Libraries.
For more information, visit www.surreylibraries.ca/poetlaureate. Applications are being accepted until June 30.