Poet Laureate

Edmonton's Poet Laureate is expected to:

• Take on the role of Poet Laureate in good faith to advance their own artistic work and reflect Edmonton in original poetic work.
• Present original work at least four times per year under the banner of the Poet Laureate, as negotiated with the partners (not including any initial announcement event).  This is expected to include:
  • at least once per year to City Council
  • at least once per year to a major City event
• When appropriate opportunities arise, act as Literary Ambassador for the City of Edmonton, which may involve travel outside of Edmonton
• Undertake other events such as presentations or workshops, with other artists and/or the public
• Attend and participate in quarterly meetings with the partners to discuss the work to date, receive feedback and advice, and plan future activities
• Provide twice annual written reporting on their activities as Poet Laureate

The Poet Laureate will receive an honorarium of $10,000 for each year of their term.

The Poet Laureate retains copyright to original materials produced in their official capacity.

The Poet Laureate retains the right to sell and otherwise use poetry created in their official capacity, however, the City will retain exclusive rights to at least 1 of the Poet's poems each year until the Poet Laureate's term expires. The City agrees to use said poem(s) exclusively as a tool to promote awareness and literacy, not for financial gain.

Historically, a Poet Laureate served as the official chronicler of state events and occasions. In ancient times, the Laureate was the central means for recording and communicating history. "Laureate" comes from the Latin word 'laureatus', meaning adorned with a crown of laurel, an honour also bestowed on the earliest Olympic athletes.

The creation of this position confirms the city's support for the arts in general, and for the literary arts in particular.

A jury, assembled by the Edmonton Arts Council, selects a new Poet Laureate every 2 years.

Across Canada today, there are Poet Laureates representing cities such as Toronto and Brantford in Ontario, Halifax, Nova Scotia, St. John's, Newfoundland, as well as the Province of Saskatchewan and the Government of Canada.