Monroe Center for the Arts joins the Georgia Poetry Project for April’s National Poetry Month

Pop-up poetry moments bring surprise, creativity, and community connection to towns across Georgia

Monroe, GA — The Georgia Poetry Society (GPS) is launching the Georgia Poetry Project, a statewide initiative designed to bring poetry into everyday life during April’s National Poetry Month. The Monroe–Walton Center for the Arts (MWCA) is partnering in the launch, helping introduce the project to the Monroe community. They will document many of these poetry moments on video for posting to social media throughout April.

Developed within GPS under the leadership of Vice President Michelle Alderman, the Georgia Poetry Project is built on a simple idea: poetry belongs everywhere. In cafés, parks, libraries, shops, sidewalks, and small-town gathering spots, community members may suddenly find themselves in the middle of a “poetry moment.” These pop-ups may be solo readings, duets, small groups, or playful staged scenes that transform into poetry.

“I have always been intrigued by poetry and a little intimidated by it,” said MWCA Literary Arts Chair Barbara Barth. “But poetry can be fun and for everyone. I am thrilled MWCA was invited to be a part of this program.”

The project includes pop-up poetry performances in public and private community spaces, student participation, volunteer involvement from residents of all ages, and creative interpretations of poems. Communities across Georgia are invited to join at any time during April.

“Georgia is full of creative people and small towns with big hearts,” said GPS President Barbara Barry-Nishanian. “This project celebrates that spirit. We hope it inspires other communities to join in, and we can’t wait to see how the idea grows.”

The public is encouraged to watch for Georgia Poetry Project moments throughout April and to follow MWCA’s social media channels for updates. Communities interested in participating may contact Michelle Alderman at vp@georgiapoetrysociety.org for more information.

The Georgia Poetry Society (GPS) exists to encourage, celebrate, and share poetry throughout Georgia, offering community, resources, and programs that support poets and poetry lovers alike. Learn more at www.georgiapoetrysociety.org.

Monroe–Walton Center for the Arts (MWCA) is Walton County’s only nonprofit community art center, offering classes, events, gallery exhibits, and creative programs for all ages in the heart of downtown Monroe. Learn more at www.monroewaltonarts.org and www.monroedowntown.com/downtown.