Cash prize and billboard exposure up for grabs in Brampton poetry contest

To celebrate National Poetry Month, the City of Brampton and the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) are looking for 10 skilled poets to show their work to the public. However, unlike normal poetry displays, like books or spoken events, these poems will be showcased on a massive mobile billboard. 

Potential candidates for this event must be Brampton-based and have a background in poetry or other writing applications. For the grand prize, successful entries will be showcased on a 24-inch LED mobile display screen in Brampton’s Garden Square. Selected authors will also receive a cash honorarium. 

Calling ALL #Brampton Poets and Writers! We are seeking 10 poems by local poets & writers to showcase on large mobile signs across Brampton for select weeks this summer and fall. Submit your work here https://t.co/7se9a9wczM pic.twitter.com/7bFUyrKDwG

— Brampton Arts Organization (@baobrampton) April 23, 2024

“We believe in the transformative power of words to inspire and enrich the daily experiences of Brampton residents through a selection of unique and poignant poems displayed on large mobile signs across the city. Together, we hope to bring moments of literary beauty and contemplation into everyday life while spotlighting local talent,” said City of Brampton representatives in an official statement. 

These selected poems will be on display for a month and relayed to the city’s official social media accounts—and potentially other LED screens across the city. Additional themes in this poetry celebration include the City of Brampton’s 50th birthday, so applicants are encouraged to weave historical inspiration into their words. 

Details for submission are as follows: 

• Poems must be new or recent original work
• Three poems can be submitted  for consideration 
• Poems can only be, at a maximum, six lines long.
• Submissions must be in one single file 
• PSAs or advertising materials will not be accepted

Submissions are open until May 19 and approved applicants will receive a lump sum of $350. So, if you are an aspiring or established wordsmith in the Brampton area, now may be the time to tap into your inner Shakespeare and show the city what you can do.