November 8, 2021 3:20 a.m.

In the KQEN Cultural Spotlight:

The Oregon Poet Laureate Program is now accepting nominations for the state’s next poet laureate.

A release from the Oregon Cultural Trust said over the course of a two-year term, the poet laureate fosters the art of poetry, encourages literacy and learning, addresses central issues relating to the humanities and heritage and reflects on public life in Oregon. Nominations for the position will be accepted through January 10th, 2022. The next poet laureate will begin their term in May of next year.

The release said during their term, the poet laureate will give a minimum of ten public readings/events per year in settings around the state, demonstrating the value and importance of poetry and creative expression to business, community and state leaders.

Nominees must be current residents of Oregon who have lived in the state for at least ten years. They must be publicly recognized as poets and well regarded for their work, have a significant body of published or performed work and agree to the conditions and term of the appointment.

To nominate a poet, fill out the online application at: https://culturaltrust.org/oregon-poet-laureate/nominations/

The Poet Laureate program is a collaborative project of the state’s five cultural partners: Oregon Arts Commission, Oregon Heritage Commission, Oregon Historical Society, Oregon Humanities, and the State Historic Preservation Office, with funding provided by the Oregon Cultural Trust.