Rock Hill Poet Laureate | York County Library

Purpose

The City of Rock Hill Poet Laureate uses their role to create awareness and appreciation for poetry through community outreach, civic engagement, commemoration of the city, and the promotion of literacy across the greater Rock Hill area.

History

The City of Rock Hill Poet Laureate program is an initiative launched in 2018 by Rock Hill Mayor John Gettys. The program is managed by the Poet Laureate Selection Committee, made up of representatives from local arts, nonprofit, education, and community organizations.

About

Angelo “Eyeambic” Geter

Angelo ‘Eyeambic’ Geter is a dynamic poet, spoken word artist and motivational speaker who merges his passions for poetry and speaking into a unique performance that educates, entertains and inspires.

Angelo’s work touches on a variety of issues including social justice, race, grief, character and manhood. He blends his pieces with commentary, stories and personal narratives that transcend a traditional lecture or performance.

Over the course of his career, Angelo has amassed several accolades. He currently serves as the Poet Laureate of Rock Hill, SC, and a 2020 Academy of American Poets Laureate Fellow. Geter is also a 2019 All-America city winner, 2018 National Poetry Slam champion, Rustbelt Regional Poetry Slam finalist, Southern Fried Regional Poetry Slam finalist and has performed and competed in several venues across the country. His work has appeared on All Def Poetry, Charleston Currents, and the Academy of American Poets “Poem a Day” series.

Contact Angelo Geter

Events

Rock Hill Youth Poet Laureate

Calling all poets, spoken word artists, emcees and writers! Win a chance to represent your city as the first ever Rock Hill Youth Poet Laureate! The Youth Poet Laureate program aims to identify youth writers and leaders committed to civic and community engagement, poetry and performance, leadership and education. Winner receives a stipend, mentorship and a tour to read and perform their work! The winner will be announced during the One Word Poetry Festival taking place June 4-6. See below for important dates and apply online.

Application info Session: April 23

Submission Deadline: May 14

Judging Period: May 15 - 29

Finalists notified: May 29

YPL Commencement performance: June 5

Angelo “Eyeambic” Geter

04/17 Upnext Youth Poetry Workshop/Open Mic - (Virtual) 2pm

04/20 Saluda Trail Poetry Day - Saluda Trail Middle School (Virtual) 8:30am

04/20 Spoken Word 101: Bringing Words to Life Workshop - Charlotte Lit (Virtual) 7pm

04/24 Youth Talent Showcase with Rock Hill AKAs - (Virtual) 2pm

04/25 Vibes and Verses Open Mic - Facebook: @FridayArtsProject (Virtual) 7:30pm

04/27 Spoken Word 101: Bringing Words to Life Workshop - Charlotte Lit (Virtual) 7pm