PRESS RELEASE 3/30/21
Contact:
Kim Soerensen
434-610-5447
Kim@riverviews.net
Riverviews Artspace
901 Jefferson St #113
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Public Art Project:
Poetry Walk along Lynchburg’s nature trails
It seems appropriate that both National Poetry Month and Earth Day are observed in April. One celebrates worlds in words; the other reminds us of the importance of the stewardship of the world.
The Poetry Walk is a new version of Beat Burg, Riverviews Artspace’s 9th annual celebration of National Poetry Month. For the past 8 years, Riverviews has dedicated the month of April to all things poetry, from poetry slams to rap sessions, readings and a call for poets of all ages.
However, COVID-19 required us to re-imagine the celebration of word.
This year, sponsored by Member One Federal Credit Union and in collaboration with the City of Lynchburg Parks & Recreation Department, 30 poems by local poets will be displayed along some of Lynchburg’s most walked trails, promoting literacy, learning, and a deeper appreciation of the natural world with a connection to the place we call home.
“It’s exciting to have such an interesting and visible place for poetry to be displayed. When you walk nature’s trails, one of the last things you expect to see is poetry integrated into the path. It really gets people thinking about the part poetry plays in the world. It also fosters a love of the natural world.”
Kim Soerensen, Executive Director of Riverviews Artspace
“Member One is proud to sponsor this re-imagined celebration of National Poetry Month,” states Lori Cauley, Chief Brand Officer at Member One Federal Credit Union. “Along with our friends at Riverviews Artspace and the City of Lynchburg Parks and Rec Department, we are excited to offer the Lynchburg community a unique way to enjoy poetry while connecting with nature.”
“The missions of RVAS and City of Lynchburg Park & Rec are united in this collaborative project by the hope that it will promote quiet reflection, spark discussion and the exchange of ideas while enjoying the beautiful natural environment of our trail system.”
Maggie Mace, City of Lynchburg, Parks & Rec Division.
The selected poems will be on display beginning April 1st, with a map showcasing the locations and mile markers of each. The map can be printed off Riverviews Artspace’s website.
In addition, Riverviews will be showcasing a poem each day of the month via social media, along with recorded poetry readings from featured poets.
Featured poets include: Amy Koudelka, Angelina Dawn, Brittany Minard, Brooke Smoke, Cassie Tesh, Debi Martin, Emily Sutphin, Falon Sherman, Farid Jalil, Fred Motley, George Moseley, Hannah Cohen, Jamie Christine, K.S., Larry Taylor, Jr., Latoya Mosby, Lillian Patterson, Lynn Brooks, Marjie Gowdy, Melinda Wheeler, Micah Kimber, Michael Cargill, Noelle Cargill, Paula Watson, Rebecca Raybon, Richard Beck, Scott Fairbrother, Terry May Price, Tim Moser, and Will Acosta.
To find out more, click here: https://riverviews.net/beatburg
Or contact Kim Soerensen at:
434-610-5447
kim@riverviews.net
