The City of Santa Fe Arts and Culture Department is accepting applications for the 2023-25 Poet Laureate term. The Poet Laureate is an honorary position in the City of Santa Fe and will serve a two-year term beginning on July 1, 2023. The Poet Laureate’s duties are both ceremonial and educational, and an honorarium of up to $10,000 annually ($20,000 total) is provided for the position with the expectation the Poet Laureate will spearhead an educational outreach initiative for the community to celebrate the spirit of the people and special qualities of Santa Fe.  

The Poet Laureate is also expected to attend and present at events as determined by the Arts and Culture Department, such as:  

• Mayoral Inaugurations and City Councilors Swearing-In 
• Mayor’s Arts Award Event 
• Community Days 
• Public Building and Public Art Dedications

Applicants must be over 21 years of age, have been a resident of Santa Fe County for at least two years or have worked in the County for two years or more, have an established presence in the poetry world, and demonstrate a commitment and passion for poetry while embracing the opportunity to engage in civic discourse. 

Find out more about the Poet Laureate Program and how to apply here.

For more information contact Rod Lambert: rdlambert@santafenm.gov 

Established in 2005, the Poet Laureate program strives to promote a meaningful poetic presence as part of the diverse cultural fabric of the City of Santa Fe and establish a body of work commemorating Santa Fe life. The position is appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the Governing Body.