The Portsmouth Poet Laureate Program is dedicated to building community through poetry by appointing and supporting an outstanding local poet as Poet Laureate for the city, sponsoring events that feature area poets and authors from outside the New Hampshire Seacoast, and encouraging a love of poetry among people of all ages. Established in 1997 by local arts organizers and writers, the program bri
ngs people together to celebrate the written word and the talents of local and visiting artists. The Poet Laureate is selected by a committee of local writers, community members, and city officials from nominations made by the public. Nominees must demonstrate dedication to the art of writing poetry, have a history of sharing their work publicly, and live or work in the Portsmouth area. The Poet Laureate is paid an honorarium and spearheads an annual project or event. The board of trustees of the program carries out projects selected by the Poet Laureate. We also invite you to meet our former Poets Laureate whose collective vision has help shape our local arts and writing community.
