The Oregon Poet Laureate Program is currently accepting nominations for the state’s next poet laureate.
The program 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.
During the two-year term, laureates give a minimum of 10 public readings/events annually in urban and rural settings around the state, demonstrating the value and importance of poetry and creative expression to business, community and state leaders.
Anis Mojgani, the current poet laureate, came to Oregon in 2004 and currently resides in Portland. He’s authored five books of poetry, performed at universities, festivals and venues around the globe and has had his work aired on HBO and NPR.
Mojgani says, “A poet is a witness who imagines and through these acts gives us permission to do the same. For the times we’re in, we must be powerfully imaginative, so to have for Oregon a position to foster and rally this imaging is a beautiful importance and gift to our state.”
Nominees must be current residents of Oregon and have lived in the state for at least 10 years.
They must be publicly recognized as poets and well regarded for excellence in their work, have a significant body of published or performed work, and agree to the conditions and term of the appointment.
Poets of all subgenres and styles will be considered, including prose, slam poetry and cowboy poetry.
To nominate a poet, fill out the online nomination form at oregonpoetlaureate.org by Friday, January 6. Once nominated, the nominee will be contacted to ensure they are interested in moving forward in the process.
An independent selection committee composed of poets, poetry advocates, literature lovers and cultural leaders will review each nomination and the nominee’s merits.
The committee then reports to the Oregon Cultural Trust and makes a recommendation to the Governor, who appoints the next Oregon Poet Laureate in the Spring of 2022.