Malibu Invites Poets to Apply to Represent Malibu’s Creative Voice
Malibu has opened the application period for its 2025–2027 Poet Laureate position, inviting local poets and community members affiliated with the city to apply for the honorary role by May 18. The selected candidate will serve a two-year term beginning in September, promoting the literary arts both within Malibu and in neighboring communities.
Submissions must be completed online and received by May 18. Interested applicants can find additional information and submit materials through the Malibu Arts Commission’s website.
Mayor Marianne Riggins praised outgoing Poet Laureate Nathan Hassall for his impactful contributions, noting how the role has enriched the community through creative expression. “Poets and artists are the voice and spirit of a community,” she said. “All of Malibu should be proud of how our Poet Laureate program has developed and is fostering appreciation and creation of literary arts.”
Hassall, who began his tenure in 2023, has hosted a range of programs such as “Caffeinated Verse,” “The Ripple Effect” poetry writing workshop, Malibu’s Annual Poetry Summit, and school-based initiatives at Malibu Elementary, Webster Elementary, and Malibu High. Known for his community engagement, Hassall is also a published poet, nonfiction book editor, and Founder of The Poetry Vessel, LLC, and Host of The Poetry Vessel Podcast, available on YouTube (under Nathan Hassall and The Poetry Vessel) and Spotify.
The Poet Laureate Committee, comprised of five members, will evaluate applications and recommend a candidate to the Malibu Arts Commission this summer. The Commission will then forward its selection to the City Council for final approval.
The new laureate’s term will begin on September 2, 2025, and conclude on September 1, 2027. The role includes a yearly stipend and a public platform to elevate poetry throughout Malibu.
