The Maine Arts Commission requests applications to select a new state Poet Laureate for a five-year term.  Maine’s Poet Laureate position is an appointment designed to promote poetry throughout the state while honoring a Maine Poet whose work can inspire an understanding and appreciation of the craft of poetry for the people of our state.

Current Poet Laureate Stuart Kestenbaum completes his five-year term this year.  Kestenbaum, a resident of Deer Isle, has used his position to share poetry in many different mediums, including his POEMS FROM HERE collaboration with Maine Public, which features a new Maine poem each week.  He has written several volumes of poetry and essays.

“We are so grateful to Stu for his wonderful work as Poet Laureate,” said Arts Commission Executive Director, David Greenham.  Greenham will facilitate the process for selecting Maine’s next Poet Laureate.  “We see this as a wonderful opportunity to recognize another member of Maine’s thriving community of poets,” he added.

“To be considered for this appointment, poets must be full-time Maine residents and have a distinguished body of poetic work.  Applicants must submit up to five poems, totalling no more than 10 pages, as well as a one-page statement outlining your vision  for  your public role as Poet Laureate and a copy of your resume no later than June 1, 2021.  For more  email:  david.greenham@maine.gov or call (207) 287-2710 in Augusta.