Maine Seeks Next Poet Laureate as Julia Bouwsma’s Term Ends

As Maine prepares for a transition in its literary leadership, applications are now open for the next state poet laureate. This opportunity arises as current laureate Julia Bouwsma completes her five-year term, which officially concludes at the end of June 2026. Bouwsma, who was appointed by Governor Janet Mills in 2021, has made significant contributions to the state’s poetry community during her tenure.

Bouwsma initially hesitated to apply for the position in 2020, viewing it as a role suited for someone with more experience. Encouraged by peers, she submitted her name with no expectations, thinking it would be a good exercise for the future. Her appointment has since allowed her to engage deeply with poets across Maine, fostering appreciation for the art form statewide.

Encouraging Diverse Voices in Poetry

Bouwsma emphasizes the importance of representation in the role of poet laureate. “There are poets all over the state doing all kinds of different and really important work in their communities and on the page,” she stated. She urges potential candidates to apply, regardless of whether they see themselves reflected in previous laureates. “The diversity of voices that we have in this state is a huge strength,” she added.

The poet laureate serves not only as a title but as an ambassador for poetry. Bouwsma has set a personal goal to visit all 16 counties in Maine, with only one remaining—Washington County. She aims to complete this goal before her term ends, emphasizing her commitment to using poetry as a tool for connection and dialogue.

Candidates for the poet laureate position must be full-time residents of Maine with a “distinguished body of poetic work.” The application requires eight to ten pages of poetry and a one-page vision statement. Past laureates have championed various projects; for instance, Stuart Kestenbaum, Bouwsma’s predecessor, initiated “Poems from Here,” a series of weekly radio broadcasts featuring Maine poets. Bouwsma herself launched the “Write Me” project, which encouraged over 300 participants to exchange poetry letters, a concept inspired by her own experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Strengthening Community Through Poetry

The Maine Arts Commission recognizes the role of creativity in building community connections. According to Executive Director Amy Hausmann, “To be able to be seen, to be able to be heard, to be able to share is one of the ways that people feel better about themselves and their place in the world.” Bouwsma’s “Write Me” project exemplified this philosophy by fostering relationships through the written word.

The laureate also participates in Poetry Out Loud, a national program encouraging high school students to engage with poetry through recitation. Khristina Kurasz, program director for the Maine Arts Commission, highlights the importance of student interaction with an active poet. “It’s a chance for people to meet an active, working poet,” she said, noting the unique opportunities it presents for students.

Since its inception in 1995, Maine has appointed six poet laureates, with Bouwsma being the latest. The role was historically unpaid, but the Maine Arts Commission now provides a stipend of $5,000 annually for five years, replacing the previous mileage reimbursement structure. The position has also expanded to include an annual lecture and greater involvement in community projects.

Applications for the next poet laureate will remain open until December 5, 2023. A review committee will assess the submissions and recommend a candidate to Governor Mills for the appointment. For more information on the application process, interested individuals can visit the Maine Arts Commission’s website at mainearts.maine.gov.

The transition to a new poet laureate presents an opportunity for Maine to celebrate its rich literary tradition and embrace the diverse voices that contribute to its vibrant poetry community.