Marin Poet Laureate Program

Albert Flynn DeSilver of Woodacre is Marin's first Poet Laureate.

His tenure officially begins on May 13th when he will appear before the County Board of Supervisors.

DeSilver has shared his passion and enthusiasm for poetic language through performances, readings and teachings at more than 30 institutions around the county, and more than 25 public and private elementary and secondary schools as a California Poet in the Schools. He has organized and participated in dozens of readings for fellow poets and students, and is an internationally published poet.

Upon being nominated, DeSilver stated " Great poetry is all about creating unexpected connections to seemingly disparate elements in our experience, it instigates a cross pollination with other art forms and civic activities. It is ultimately a practice of healing, a calling to explore the mysteries of communication and an opening of the heart. Over and over I am struck by poetry's capacity to inspire people's sense of connection and possibility. My goal as an ambassador of poetry in the community would be to expand those possibilities through the collaborative engagement and support of multiple arts and community organizations."

The Marin Arts Council, in partnership with the Marin Poetry Center and Marin Cultural Services Commission announces the creation of the position of Marin Poet Laureate.

As an ambassador for poetry, the Laureate is expected to promote citizens’ awareness of poetry as well as heighten their appreciation of the art form. The Laureate will strive to forge a meaningful connection between poetry and the populace, undertaking projects that make poetry more available and more accessible to people in their everyday lives.

During the Poet Laureate’s two-year appointment, he or she will be expected to officiate at selected public gatherings, initiate a dialogue between poets and the community, inspire others in their writing and personal expression and bring recognition to the history and tradition of poetry in Marin County.