First published in the Dec. 10 print issue of the Glendale News-Press.
Following a grassroots call from a citizen of Glendale, the request of Mayor Ardy Kassakhian, and the approval of the City Council, Glendale Library, Arts & Culture has created the city’s first Poet Laureate Program. The selected Poet Laureate will serve as an ambassador for Glendale’s rich culture and diversity, promoting the art of poetry.
Applicants for the post must submit examples of their work, and the selected Poet Laureate will receive a $5,000 stipend for one year. During that time, the Poet Laureate will be asked to develop a project that engages community members of all ages in poetry writing, spoken word performance, and/or poetry appreciation. The Poet Laureate will also write a poem that celebrates Glendale’s rich culture and diversity and read poetry aloud at special events throughout the city.
“Glendale is located in the heart of the creative capital of the world from visual and performing arts to the written word and everything in between,” said Mayor Ardy Kassakhian. “Recognizing the talents of our residents who call our great city their home and designating one of them each year as Glendale’s Poet Laureate helps celebrate our creative diversity and helps highlight everyone who supports the arts.”
The selection panel will include Arts & Culture Commissioner Sevana Zadorian, Los Angeles Poet Laureate Lynne Thompson, Poet and Founder of the Los Angeles Press Linda Ravenswood, and Poet and Instructor at Glendale Community College Julie Gamberg.
Qualified poets are individuals 18 years or older who reside in Glendale, have a history of publishing and/or performing poetry, have experience with teaching, public speaking, and/or community service, and can commit to serving in the role for at least one year.
Individuals from historically untapped communities (such as Black, Indigenous and People of Color, LGBTQIA+) are encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 20. Details on how to apply are available at https://glac.info/PoetLaureate.
