Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Anna Bligh
24/04/2009
INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED POET BEGINS QUEENSLAND RESIDENCY
Premier Anna Bligh today announced an acclaimed New Zealand poet, musician, producer and teacher of creative writing as Queensland's 2009 Poet-in-Residence.
Premier Bligh said Hinemoana Baker is the state's fifth Poet-in Residence, and will be based in Queensland from July to September.
"The Poet-in-Residence has become a celebrated fixture on the Queensland literary calendar," Ms Bligh said.
"This program has benefited Queensland writers and poets by opening up new links and partnerships for them with the international literary community.
"It is also a chance for international poets to play a part in our own cultural activities. During her time here Ms Baker will have a key role at literary events including the Queensland Poetry Festival and the Brisbane Writers Festival, in addition to activities at the Queensland Writers Centre.
"Ms Baker will also have the opportunity to visit regional Queensland with residencies planned in Blackall and Cairns."
The Bligh Government provides $50,000 for the 2009 Poet-in-Residence program, which is administered by Queensland Writers Centre in partnership with the Queensland Poetry Festival, Brisbane Writers Festival and the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts.
Ms Baker's first poetry collection, 'matuhi | needle' (2004), was co-published in New Zealand by Victoria University Press and in the US by Perceval Press, the publishing house of actor and artist Viggo Mortensen.
Her poems have been chosen for the 2004, 2006 and 2008 'Best New Zealand Poems' online magazine, and have appeared in numerous other anthologies.
"With a history steeped in Maori and Pakeha (non-Maori) culture, Hinemoana brings a powerful and sensitive, bi-lingual voice to Queensland this year, one which speaks of the deep connections with bloodlines and place," said Queensland Writers Centre Chair, Theodora Le Souquet.
"We are truly privileged to have Ms Baker accept our invitation," she said.
"Hinemoana Baker follows the 2008 Poet-in-Residence, German poet Michael Hofmann, author of five poetry collections and translator of more than 50 books, who worked to inspire and connect Queensland audiences.
"We anticipate that the Poet-in-Residence will create a legacy of new work and creative partnerships that will have a far-reaching impact on Queensland literature."
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Queensland Premier's Office media release