Poetry Corners

In celebration of National Poetry Month, our group of local poet volunteers is thrilled to announce the 2024 Poetry Corners. This annual event encompasses a poetry selection leading to a public exhibition of the jury-selected poems in Bainbridge Island business windows. 

Since 1999, Poetry Corners has been a platform for showcasing original works by local poets, both established and aspiring. Selected poems from the competition adorn the windows of Winslow businesses and community spaces across Bainbridge Island throughout National Poetry Month, from April 1st to 30th, enriching our shared spaces and inspiring all who encounter them.

Poets whose works are selected will have the opportunity to present their poems at Poetry Corners LIVE on May 4th, 2024 at Bainbridge Island Museum of Art.

Poetry Corners is sponsored by the Bainbridge Island Poet Laureate Program, with funding from the City of Bainbridge Island and support from Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network (BARN).

Poets of all ages, disciplines, and experience levels are invited to submit their work.

DEADLINE

Entries must be received by midnight on February 29, 2024.


ELIGIBILITY

Open to Bainbridge Island residents or anyone with a strong Bainbridge connection.


SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Poets are encouraged to submit work on the 2024 Theme: EcoPoetry:

A poetic theme similar to nature or the natural world is often referred to as "ecopoetry." Ecopoetry explores the relationship between humans and the environment, reflecting on nature, ecology, and the impact of human activities on the natural world. This genre of poetry often addresses environmental issues, celebrates the beauty of nature, and contemplates the interconnectedness of all living things.

Each poet may submit up to three poems for consideration. For students in grades K-12, please indicate your grade level when submitting. Also, specify if a submitted poem has been previously published and where. Poems must be no more than 20 lines, including title and line spaces, to fit the constraints of the display posters. Names of poets need not be included in the line count.

Email submissions to BIPoetryCorners@gmail.com with the subject line “Poetry Corners Submission.” Submit poems as attached Word or Pages documents. If this method poses a challenge, feel free to contact us at BIPoetryCorners@gmail.com.

While Poetry Corners welcomes diverse poems, please be mindful that selected works will be publicly displayed and read by individuals of all ages. Check your poems for accuracy, as typos may be misunderstood.

Include in the body of your email:

  • Your name, address, and phone number

  • Your email address

  • Grade level and school (for students)

  • If not a Bainbridge Island resident, describe your connection to Bainbridge Island.

A confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your submission will be sent.


JURYING

A panel of three jurors will select poems for display and publication. Submitted poems will be juried blindly, with no names or personal information. Only one poem per poet will be printed for posters, and not all entrants' work will be selected.

ENTRY FEE

Students are free

 $15 for adults (regardless of the number of poems submitted, up to three). 

Either - 

Mail entry fee checks to:

Poetry Corners

P.O. Box 4762

Rollingbay, WA 98061

Or

Venmo: @Tamarah-Rockwood

Checks should be made out to “Poetry Corners,” and please write "Poetry Corners Submission" in the memo. Entry fee checks must be received no later than noon on March 1, 2023. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Jury-selected poems will be printed on posters and placed randomly in shop windows and other locations throughout Winslow and possibly other popular spots on Bainbridge Island. Specific merchant location requests cannot be honored.

Poetry Corners is supported by: