Title
Approval of modifications to Call for Poet Laureate
Recommended Action
Move to approve the recommended changes to the Call for Poet Laureate
Report
Issue:
Review of changes to the Call for Poet Laureate approved at the December 10, 2020 Arts Commission meeting.
Staff Contact:
Stephanie Johnson, Arts Program Manager, Parks, Arts & Recreation, 360.709.2678
Presenter(s):
N/A
Background and Analysis:
At the December 10, 2020 Arts Commission meeting, Commissioners approved making
modifications to reopen the Call for Poet Laureate following the January 14 Arts
Commission meeting with a focus on addressing diversity, inclusion and community.
Modifications to include language specifying the focus of the appointment is to utilize the power of poetry and language to contribute insight, understanding and healing to address issues of equity and inclusion, selecting a jury primarily made up of black, indigenous, and people of color, expanding residency requirement to live or work within City limits, and allowing cost of required insurance to be a reimbursable expense. Four application need to be received at a minimum for the process to move forward. Modifications to the application would be approved by the Arts Commission at their January 14, 2021 meeting.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
N/A
Options:
1. Approve modified Call for Poet Laureate as recommended.
2. Edit modified Call for Poet Laureate and approve.
3. Do not approve modified Call for Poet Laureate.
Financial Impact:
Annual fee for the Poet Laureate is $1,500 from the Municipal Art Fund, with $750 additional in reimbursable expense per year (two year term).
Attachments:
None - modified Call for Poet Laureate will be shared at the meeting.