Sedona AZ (October 21, 2012) – Arizona is home to a wealth of distinguished and diverse literary artists who, through their work and service, represent Arizona’s values, storied history and boundless potential.

The Arizona Poet Laureate is a Governor’s appointee whose purpose is to champion the art of American poetry, inspire an emerging generation of literary artists and educate Arizonans about poets and authors who have influenced our state through creative literary expression.

To be eligible for nomination, candidates must:

• be of recognized stature in the literary, cultural, education and/or academic communities;

• possess a significant record of high-quality published or documented work and/or service through literary arts;

• have resided in the state for at least 2 years from the date of nomination;

• live in Arizona for at least 6 months out of the calendar year;

• be willing and able to travel throughout the state;

• and be least 18 years of age.

The Arizona Poet Laureate shall serve a term of two years by gubernatorial appointment, and may not serve more than three consecutive terms. The Governor shall appoint the Arizona Poet Laureate from a list of up to three ranked nominations provided by the Arts Commission, following a thorough panel review process.

Nominations are open to the public. Self-nominations are welcome.

Visit www.azarts.gov/azpoetlaureate to download nomination guidelines and to submit a nomination. The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, November 9, 2012.

Questions? Contact Artist Services Coordinator, Jessica Rajko, at jrajko@azarts.gov and or call 602-771-6530.