News Summary
Orlando is on the hunt for its third Poet Laureate as Shawn Welcome approaches the end of his tenure. This appointed role aims to foster poetry appreciation in the community, engage residents and visitors, and promote a love for literature. Candidates can apply until June 30, showcasing their literary history to potentially fill this influential position that celebrates local artistic talent.
Orlando is actively searching for its third Poet Laureate as the current holder of the title, Shawn Welcome, nears the end of his tenure, which concludes in October 2025. In partnership with United Arts of Central Florida, the City of Orlando has initiated the search process, inviting qualified candidates to apply for this esteemed position.
The role of Poet Laureate is pivotal in fostering poetry appreciation and promoting a love for literature among both residents and visitors of Orlando. As a ceremonial appointment, the Poet Laureate plays a significant role in the city’s cultural and literary scenes, representing the artistic community and engaging the public through the power of poetry. The selected individual is expected to present original poetry at various city events, community gatherings, and youth-oriented activities, effectively bridging the gap between literature and the wider public.
Applications for the next Poet Laureate opened recently and will remain available until June 30, 2025. To qualify, applicants must be at least 21 years old, reside in Central Florida, and demonstrate a strong track record in poetry. This includes having substantial literary work samples and relevant experiences that showcase their artistic merit. A selection committee appointed by Mayor Buddy Dyer will assess the candidates to determine who best meets the qualifications and responsibilities associated with the role.
The newly chosen Poet Laureate is set to be introduced to the community in October 2025, aligning with National Arts and Humanities Month, underscoring the importance of the arts in personal and communal expression. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the city to elevate its cultural offerings and highlight local talents.
The Poet Laureate position was established in Orlando in 2017, a visionary creation by Mayor Dyer to enhance literary engagement and showcase the city’s artistic talents. Since then, the role has been instrumental in elevating Orlando’s literary profile, with Shawn Welcome, the current Poet Laureate, leaving a significant impact during his time. Welcome is known for his unique blend of poetry and rap, designed to resonate with diverse audiences and spotlight the importance of representation within poetry.
Throughout his tenure, Welcome has actively engaged the community, organizing popular events such as the “Words and Wonders” poetry contest. His efforts have not only enriched the cultural landscape of Orlando but have also encouraged more residents to partake in literary activities, thereby nurturing a vibrant arts community.
In addition to public performances, the Poet Laureate receives an annual stipend of $4,000, which underscores the city’s investment in the arts and the recognition of the Poet Laureate’s contributions. The selected individual will be required to participate in several city-sponsored events each year, further promoting poetry and literature across the community.
Shawn Welcome’s journey to his Poet Laureate title is marked by resilience and dedication. Overcoming significant financial difficulties, he has worked in various capacities, including cabinet installation and call center support, before fully immersing himself in the world of poetry. His success serves as an inspiration to many aspiring poets in the region.
As the search for the next Poet Laureate continues, Orlando remains committed to celebrating its literary heritage and encouraging artistic expressions that reflect the diverse voices within its community. Residents are encouraged to consider applying or nominating candidates who embody the spirit and mission of this important role.
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Additional Resources
- Bungalower: Pat Greene has 8 Questions for Orlando Poet Laureate Shawn Welcome
- Your Community Paper: Important Stories to Tell – City of Orlando Seeking Poet Laureate
- Orlando Weekly: Orlando is Now Looking for Its Next Poet Laureate
- Wikipedia: Poet Laureate
- Fox 35 Orlando: Meet Shawn Welcome, Orlando’s Poet Laureate
- Google Search: Orlando Poet Laureate
