APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN!
Read below for more information and how to apply.
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are delighted to invite poets from across the Isle of Wight to apply for this exciting and prestigious role. The Isle of Wight Poet Laureate programme celebrates creativity, community, and the power of words to connect people and places.
We are looking for a poet who is passionate about sharing poetry, engaging diverse audiences, and representing the Island’s rich cultural life. Whether you are an emerging writer or an established voice, we welcome applications from poets of all backgrounds and experiences.
If you care deeply about language, storytelling, and community, and would like to play an active role in inspiring others through poetry, we would love to hear from you.
To apply for the Isle of Wight Poet Laureate position, please submit your application by email to:
info@iowpoetlaureate.org.uk
Your email should include the following:
1. Short Biography (maximum 250 words)
Tell us about yourself, your creative background, and your experience with poetry or related arts.
2. Five Sample Poems (maximum 40 lines each)
Please submit five original poems. These may be on any theme or in any style. We cannot accept previously published work without permission.
3. Personal Statement (maximum 500 words)
Explain why you would like to become the Isle of Wight Poet Laureate, what you would bring to the role, and how you would use poetry to engage and inspire local communities.
4. Optional: Performance or Reading Link
You may include a link to a video or audio recording of you performing or reading your work. Links to YouTube, Vimeo, or social media platforms are accepted.
Submission Deadline
All applications must be received by 26 April 2026.
Late submissions will not be considered.
File Format
Please submit your documents as Word or PDF files where possible. Clearly label each file with your name.
If you have any questions about the application process, please contact us at info@iowpoetlaureate.org.uk.
We look forward to reading your work and learning more about you.
During this two-year honorary position, the Laureate will:
Write and perform poems for island events, celebrations, and causes
Take part in community workshops, readings, and local festivals
Collaborate with schools, libraries, and cultural partners
Inspire new poets through mentorship, open mics, and creative projects
Represent the Isle of Wight regionally and nationally
The Laureate’s role is honorary, but commissions, workshops, and special projects will include paid opportunities.
We welcome applications from poets of all backgrounds and styles — page poets, spoken word performers, songwriters, and emerging voices alike. You must be aged 18 or over.
Applicants should:
Live on the Isle of Wight (or have strong, current ties to the island)
Be aged 18 or over
Be available to attend key events and engagements
Be comfortable performing or sharing their work publicly
Demonstrate a genuine passion for using poetry to connect communities
We actively encourage applications from people who identify as neurodivergent, disabled, LGBTQ+, from diverse cultural backgrounds, or who are underrepresented in the arts.