10520 97 St NW #127, Edmonton, AB T5H 4J1
This morning event, presented in partnership with the Edmonton Arts Council, celebrates public art and poetry as part of the 30th anniversary of the Edmonton Arts Council and the addition of the 300th public artwork to the City of Edmonton Public Art Collection.
The Poetry of Public Art highlights the revitalization of Mary Burlie Park and features poetry by Titilope Sonuga, Naomi McIlwraith, and Cui Jinzhe, created to be incorporated into the park design ahead of its opening in 2026.
Accessibility: If you require ASL interpretation or other access considerations, email support@edmontonarts.ca.
Featured Poets:
Titilope Sonuga – Award-winning poet, playwright, and performer. Former Edmonton Poet Laureate, Sonuga has published three poetry collections (Down to Earth, Abscess, This Is How We Disappear) and released three spoken word albums. She has performed globally, including as the first poet at a Nigerian presidential inauguration.
Naomi McIlwraith – Poet, essayist, and storyteller. Naomi works with the City of Edmonton to lead Indigenous Framework workshops and uses her writing to foster connection and justice.
Cui Jinzhe (Qiu Shi) – Painter, poet, and multidisciplinary artist whose work integrates visual art, poetry, and interdisciplinary practice in interactive public contexts. Based in Edmonton since 2008, Jinzhe’s practice spans multiple artistic mediums.
This event is free to attend, but please pre-register to reserve your spot.