Apply to Become the Isle of Wight Poet Laureate

Applications open January 26 – April 26, 2026

Are you passionate about poetry and proud to call the Isle of Wight home?
Do you believe in the power of words to inspire, unite, and make a difference?

If so — we want to hear from you.


About the Role

The Isle of Wight Poet Laureate will act as the island’s poetic voice and cultural ambassador from September 2026 to September 2028.


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.

Who Can Apply

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.

How to Apply

Applications open on January 26, 2026.
When submissions open, an online form will appear on this page.

You’ll be asked to provide:

  1. A short biography (max 250 words) — tell us about yourself and your creative background.

  2. Five sample poems (max 40 lines each) — original work only, any theme or style.

  3. A personal statement (max 500 words) — explaining why you’d like to be the Isle of Wight Poet Laureate, what you’d bring to the role, and how you would use poetry to engage local communities.

  4. Optional: a link to a performance video or reading (YouTube/Vimeo/social media accepted).

Submissions will close on April 26, 2026.