News Summary
Governor Tate Reeves has appointed Ann Fisher-Wirth as the new Poet Laureate of Mississippi. Fisher-Wirth, known for her literary achievements and commitment to promoting poetry and literacy in the community, will serve a four-year term. She is recognized for her extensive publications and collaborations that explore cultural heritage through poetry, making her a prominent voice in Mississippi’s literary landscape.
Oxford, Mississippi – Ann Fisher-Wirth has been appointed as Mississippi’s new Poet Laureate by Governor Tate Reeves. This prestigious position will see Fisher-Wirth serve a four-year term as the official state poet, where her primary responsibilities will include creating and presenting poetry for significant state occasions, promoting literacy throughout the community, and representing Mississippi’s rich cultural heritage through her artistic contributions.
Fisher-Wirth is known for her considerable literary achievements, which underscore her qualifications for this role. She has been honored multiple times for her contributions to poetry and literature, receiving three Mississippi Arts Commission Poetry Fellowships and the Mississippi Institute of Arts Poetry Award. Additionally, she boasts an impressive record of nominations, including fifteen Pushcart Prize nominations, which recognize outstanding poetry published in literary magazines.
In recognition of her literary excellence, Fisher-Wirth was awarded the Governor’s Arts Award for Excellence in Literature and Poetry by the Mississippi Arts Commission in 2023. This accolade adds to her reputation as a leading voice in the literary community of Mississippi.
Throughout her career, Fisher-Wirth has published several poetry collections, making substantial contributions to the literary landscape. Notably, her eighth book, titled “Into the Chalice of Your Thoughts,” is a collaborative work that features photography by Wilfried Raussert and includes Spanish translations by the Women in Translation collective. This book showcases her commitment to bridging cultures through her poetry.
Other notable works by Fisher-Wirth include “Paradise Is Jagged” and “Mississippi,” which is another collaborative project that pairs her poetry with the photography of Maude Schuyler Clay. These works highlight her versatility and dedication to exploring the intersection of different artistic forms.
As Poet Laureate, Fisher-Wirth will be instrumental in fostering a deeper appreciation for poetry across Mississippi. Her role will involve not only the creation of poetry for state events but also initiatives aimed at promoting literacy and engaging with local communities. This aligns with the broader mission of the Poet Laureate to serve as a custodian of the state’s literary heritage while encouraging the art of poetry among the public.
Governors often appoint a Poet Laureate to recognize the unique role poetry plays in cultural dialogue and expression. By naming Fisher-Wirth to this esteemed position, Governor Tate Reeves underscores the importance of literary arts in representing the diverse voices and stories of Mississippi.
Fisher-Wirth’s appointment comes during a time when the arts community is increasingly seeking ways to engage audiences through innovative programming and outreach. Her extensive background and recognition in the field, particularly her ability to collaborate with other artists, position her well to make a significant impact in her new role.
For more detailed information about Ann Fisher-Wirth and her upcoming projects as the Poet Laureate of Mississippi, interested individuals can visit the Mississippi Arts Commission’s official website at arts.ms.gov/poetlaureate.
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Ann Fisher-Wirth Appointed as Mississippi’s New Poet Laureate
Additional Resources
- WJTV
- Hub City Spokes
- Oxford Eagle
- Clarion Ledger
- Natchez Democrat
- Wikipedia: Poet Laureate
- Google Search: Mississippi Poet Laureate
- Google Scholar: Ann Fisher-Wirth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Poetry
- Google News: Mississippi Poet Laureate
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