Apply to be Richmond’s next Poet Laureate

The city is looking for its next artist to serve a two-year term as the voice of the city and liaison for the arts.

RICtoday_PoetLaureate_RoscoeBurnems

Roscoe Burnems became Richmond’s first poet laureate in 2020.

Photo by Onajé Baldwin

The city is looking for the next Richmond Poet Laureate. Serving a two-year term, the poet acts as a literary arts liaison and promotes poetry across local communities.

Two years ago, Roscoe Burnems became the city’s first poet laureate. His accomplishments included organizing a citywide high school poetry slam with RPS, partnering with Mending Walls for performances at murals, and hosting workshops for youth and adults.

Applicants should have been a resident of Richmond or the surrounding counties for the last 10 years and be at least 21 years old. Traditional publication credentials are not required, but applicants should demonstrate a commitment to the Richmond community and dedication to the craft of poetry.

The term will last from April 1, 2023-March 31, 2025. Apply before Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 11:59 p.m.

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