Calgary Celebrates New Poet Laureate
Known for her electric performance-style, Sheri-D Wilson takes the reins
A poet, educator, producer, and activist, Sheri-D Wilson is well known for her electric performance-style, making her a favorite with local and international audiences.
Wilson was formally announced as the 2018 – 2020 Calgary Poet Laureate in Council Chambers in conjunction with the Mayor’s Poetry City Challenge.
Taking over from outgoing Laureate, Micheline Maylor, and fresh off the launch of her new CD, Dragon Rouge, Wilson was on hand to read an excerpt from her work and accept the position.
“As poets speak so they listen—poets listen through the ideas that arrive and arise from the earth and through community eyes. Calgary, Mohkínstsis, the place where two rivers meet—is an epicentre of poetry and spoken word,” says Wilson in a statement. “Poets live without boundaries—and poetry sings with the inclusive voice of all people. I am honoured to be the fourth Poet Laureate of my birthplace, Calgary, and I will do the best damn job that I can!”
Wilson is the award-winning author of 11 books, the creator of four short films, and has released three albums which combine music and poetry. She has read, performed, and taught at festivals across Canada, USA, UK, France, Spain, Belgium, Mexico, and South Africa.
“The Poet Laureate program is a wonderful way to reflect our city and its citizens through the power of words and language,” says Patti Pon, President & CEO of Calgary Arts Development, in a statement. “We thank Micheline Maylor for her skill, her generous spirit, and her deep connections to the community during the last two years as Calgary’s Poet Laureate. It is a pleasure to welcome Sheri-D Wilson to the position for the next two years. Sheri-D is a formidable voice in our community and we look forward to seeing how she will bring her own depth of character, sense of curiosity, and gusto to the role.”
