Iowa City Announces 11th Annual Poetry in Public Program, Seeks Submissions

Media Release

The time has come once again for local poets to submit their entries for consideration to participate in the 11th annual Poetry in Public Program. Whether you're a published writer or just write on a casual basis, the project's mission is to encourage local writers from all age groups and all levels of writing experience to submit entries. The deadline is Friday, February 15.

All submitted poems will be reviewed by a panel of judges, and selected poems will be displayed throughout the Iowa City community and on local and literary websites from April (National Poetry Month) through the fall. Selected poets will also have the opportunity to read their poem during the City's Iowa Arts Festival in June as well as participate with a local artist in the Poetry in Public Art Program (see www.icgov.org/pipart.

The rules for this year's Poetry in Public program are pretty much the same as they have been since 2002, when the City's Public Art Program first introduced the program:
= The poem must be seven lines or less (not including the title).
= Only one poem per person.
= Anyone who is a resident of Johnson County may enter.
= Poets should avoid using complex formats, layouts, and/or typefaces.
= Poems must be suitable for readers of all ages, and for public display.
= Entries should be accompanied by a 2013 Submission Form, found at www.icgov.org/pip.
= A full list of contest rules and guidelines is available at www.icgov.org/pip.

Entries must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 15, 2013. They may be e-mailed to marcia-bollinger@iowa-city.org or mailed or dropped off to:
City Hall
Attn: Poetry in Public
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240

For more information, visit www.icgov.org/pip, call 319.356.5237 or e-mail marcia-bollinger@iowa-city.org.