RICHMOND IS SEEKING ITS FIRST-EVER POET LAUREATE

This is some exciting news for Richmond’s art community. The City has launched applications for Richmond’s very-first Poet Laureate.

According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, the idea came from Patty Parks, a Human Services employee and a former librarian. She noticed that an increasing number of Richmond residents needed emotional and spiritual support, in addition to physical or economic help, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The position will carry a $4,000 honorarium per year and run for a two-year term, with the first term from January 2021 to December 2023. The honorarium was made possible by private donors, including Sally Brown, The Poe Museum and the North Avenue Library, and does not use city funds, according to a city statement.

Every time I learn of a first in 2020, I get taken aback. This definitely seems overdue for a city that is so rich with artists. I’m excited to see how this program evolves.

For more information about the program and how to apply, please visit www.rvapoetlaureate.org.