El Cerrito Poet Laureate Program

In October 2015, the Arts and Culture Commission unanimously agreed to establish a Poet Laureate Program funded by the City’s Art in Public Places Program. The Commission envisions that the laureate will create and lead activities that will raise the status of poetry in the everyday consciousness of El Cerrito residents and inspire writing and performances of poetry among all age groups.

Program Goals

The goals of the Poet Laureate Program are to:
• Promote literature and the arts in the City
• Inspire/encourage residents in their writing and personal expression
• Bring attention to poetry in less traditional settings
• Initiate a dialogue between local poets, cultural organizations, and community institutions.

MOST RECENT POET LAUREATE

 Poet Eevelyn Mitchell Photo
El Cerrito resident Eevelyn Mitchell was selected to serve as the City's
third Poet Laureate (2021-2024). Click here to Learn more about Eevelyn Mitchell.
Keep In Touch
You can sign up to receive notifications from the Arts and Culture Commission about the Poet Laureate Program, other arts events and call to artist announcements.