The Madison Arts Commission announced that the fifth annual call for a Madison Youth Poet Laureate is now open.
The Madison Youth Poet Laureate program is a partnership between the City of Madison and the National Youth Poet Laureate program.
The Youth Poet Laureate program honors young poets and provides competitive opportunities regionally and nationally.
“Madison has always been a city shaped by its young artists, and I’m honored to invite the next generation of poets to step forward,” Madison Poet Laureate Steven Espada Dawson said in a statement. “This is a rare opportunity to represent your city, to deepen your craft, and to discover what your voice can make happen in the world. I’m looking forward to working with the selected poet and supporting them as they grow into this role.”
The Madison Youth Poet Laureate serves for one year. The person selected must give three public readings alongside the current Madison Poet Laureate during their term. Additionally, the Youth Poet Laureate will have the opportunity to apply for the National Youth Poet Laureate role in the fall.
Applications for the 2026-2027 Madison Youth Poet Laureate are open now and close on April 30.
To be eligible, applicants must be between the ages of 13 and 19 at the time of selection and must reside within the city of Madison.
