The Mason District Arts Council hosts a poetry contest

Calling all poets, including those who’ve never written a poem before: Submit a poem to the Mason District Arts Council’s poetry competition.

The contest is part of the council’s community art events aimed at reimagining the ideas of the American Revolution and engaging the public through the arts. The council is convening a series of art-focused events in the weeks leading up to the Fourth of July that reflect on America’s 250th anniversary.

The poetry competition is open to all adults and high school students with a connection to Fairfax County.

Related story: Mason Arts 250: Reimagining the ideas of the American Revolution 

Winners will receive gift cards and will be invited to read their poems at Mason District art events in June.

Contestants are encouraged to read Emma Lazarus’ poem, “The New Colossus,” and use it as a spark for your own poem.

Submission guidelines are available here. The deadline is May 9.

The Mason District Arts Council is a volunteer community organization made up of writers, visual, and performing artists, along with neighborhood associations, art organizations, and nonprofits in Mason District, which includes Annandale, Bailey’s Crossroads, Culmore, Lincolnia, and Seven Corners.

Funding and other support for the council’s activities is provided by ArtsFairfax, the Mason District supervisor’s office, locally owned businesses, and private donors.