Austin Public Library Names Zell Miller III the First-ever Austin Poet Laureate
Local poet and theater artist named first to hold 2-year position to promote poetry, literacy, and literary arts in Austin and serve as ambassador to advance Austin Public Library’s mission
Austin Public Library has selected local poet and theater artist Zell Miller III as the City’s first ever Poet Laureate.
The Austin Poet Laureate Program was established by the Austin City Council last year to be administered by Austin Public Library. The goals of the program include promoting poetry, literacy, and the literary arts in the Austin community; advancing poetry as a means of understanding and communicating Austin history and culture; and establishing an ambassador to advance Austin Public Library's mission, vision, strategic goals, and core values to discover, learn, and create through poetry.
As Austin Poet Laureate, Miller will be responsible for establishing and leading poetry and literacy related programming through Austin Public Library, including public readings and workshops, for the duration of his two-year term, which will run from April 2025 to April 2027.
The selection of the first-ever Austin Poet Laureate means that Austin joins many other major cities in Texas and throughout the nation in having a position dedicated to serving as an official ambassador of the city’s literary arts, fostering community connections through the art of poetry.
More information about Zell Miller III:
Zell Miller III is a poet, theater artist, and creative force known for his thought-provoking works that explore identity, culture, and the human experience. With a passion for storytelling and performance, Miller has made significant contributions to the arts, particularly in the realms of poetry and theater. In 2004, he was voted the best/poet writer in the Austin Chronicle. In 2017, he was inducted into the Austin Arts Hall of Fame.
His poetic work is deeply influenced by his personal experiences and the broader social and political landscapes. He has toured nationally, and internationally as a performer. He has opened for legendary artists like Nikki Giovanni, and the Last Poets. Zell's poetry often weaves together elements of history, race, and emotion, creating powerful narratives that resonate with audiences. As a theater artist, he has utilized his unique voice to craft performances that challenge conventional boundaries and encourage reflection on societal issues.
Miller's approach to both poetry and theater is marked by an intense focus on language, rhythm, and the connection between artist and audience. His performance style, taught to him by his mentor Laurie Carlos, is steeped in the Jazz aesthetic. Whether performing on stage or sharing his written work, he brings a raw and genuine energy to his art, drawing viewers into the intimate spaces he creates with words and movement. An open book, Miller loves to say that his greatest creations are his children Zell IV, and Marley, and his relationship with his amazing partner Ashley Miller.
Through his work, Zell Miller III continues to inspire others to explore their own creativity and question the world around them. His dedication to using art as a platform for dialogue and change has made him a distinctive and influential voice in the contemporary arts scene.
Join us for an evening of poetry, connection, and celebration as we welcome Zell Miller III, our first Austin Poet Laureate on April 14th at the Central Library. Reserve your spot here.