The City of Coeur d’Alene is pleased to announce the establishment of the honorific of ‘Coeur d’Alene Poet Laureate’. Poets, including songwriters, who are 18 years of age or older and residents of Coeur d’Alene are encouraged to apply through Friday, August 9, 2024.

The Coeur d’Alene Poet Laureate will have the unique opportunity to reflect the city’s distinctive landscapes, social situations, and significant events through their art. This initiative is designed not only to foster a deeper appreciation for poetry and literature within the community but also to document Coeur d’Alene’s distinctive character. The City Council authorized this poet laureate program proposal during its regular meeting on July 2, 2024.

The Poel Laureate will be appointed by the mayor upon recommendation of the Arts Commission and subject to City Council confirmation.  The Poet Laureate will serve a term of three fiscal years (October–September) and will receive an annual honorarium of $1,500. During their term, the Poet Laureate will be commissioned to:

• Write at least two (2) original works each year to be entered into the City’s Public Art Collection.  These works will be published in local publications and/or presented at public occasions.
• Perform at least three (3) local readings each year: one at the Mayor’s Awards in the Arts, one at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library for the National Poetry Month, and one at the regular City Council meeting.
• Work to raise the visibility of poetry and other literary arts within the community through outreach, education, and other programs.

Interested poets and songwriters are invited to submit their applications via email to Jo Anne Mateski at [email protected] by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 9, 2024. The application should include:

• A one-page letter of interest detailing the applicant’s connection to Coeur d’Alene and proposed outreach initiatives or programs that could be implemented in the community, including the applicant’s address.
• Three original poems or songs (with publication credits, if applicable).
• A résumé highlighting qualifications and publications.
• A video or web link to a video of the applicant performing a sample of their work.

This exciting new program underscores Coeur d’Alene’s commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural community and celebrating the rich tapestry of its local artistic talents. ###