Monroe Center for the Arts Joins Georgia Poetry Project for National Poetry Month

Pop-up poetry moments bring surprise, creativity, and community connection to towns across Georgia.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:21pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, out-of-focus scene of people gathered together, engaged in conversation and the sharing of poetry, with soft, warm pools of color and light creating an intimate, cozy atmosphere.The Georgia Poetry Project aims to bring unexpected moments of poetry into everyday life, sparking creativity and community connection across the state.Monroe Today

The Georgia Poetry Society (GPS) is launching the Georgia Poetry Project, a statewide initiative designed to bring poetry into everyday life during April's National Poetry Month. The Monroe–Walton Center for the Arts (MWCA) is partnering in the launch, helping introduce the project to the Monroe community and documenting many of the poetry moments on video for social media.

Why it matters

The Georgia Poetry Project aims to make poetry more accessible and engaging for communities across the state, transforming everyday spaces into impromptu poetry performances. This collaboration between GPS and MWCA brings this creative initiative to the Monroe area, providing new opportunities for residents to experience and connect with poetry.

The details

The Georgia Poetry Project includes pop-up poetry performances in public and private community spaces, student participation, volunteer involvement from residents of all ages, and creative interpretations of poems. Communities across Georgia are invited to join at any time during April. MWCA is excited to be part of the project, as it aligns with their mission to offer creative programs that support the arts in the local community.

  • The Georgia Poetry Project will take place throughout April, which is National Poetry Month.
  • MWCA will be documenting the poetry moments on video for posting to social media throughout April.

The players

Michelle Alderman

Vice President of the Georgia Poetry Society, who developed the Georgia Poetry Project.

Barbara Barry-Nishanian

President of the Georgia Poetry Society.

Barbara Barth

Literary Arts Chair at the Monroe–Walton Center for the Arts.

Monroe–Walton Center for the Arts (MWCA)

Walton County's only nonprofit community art center, offering classes, events, gallery exhibits, and creative programs for all ages in the heart of downtown Monroe.

Georgia Poetry Society (GPS)

An organization that exists to encourage, celebrate, and share poetry throughout Georgia, offering community, resources, and programs that support poets and poetry lovers alike.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I have always been intrigued by poetry and a little intimidated by it. But poetry can be fun and for everyone. I am thrilled MWCA was invited to be a part of this program.”

— Barbara Barth, Literary Arts Chair, Monroe–Walton Center for the Arts

“Georgia is full of creative people and small towns with big hearts. This project celebrates that spirit. We hope it inspires other communities to join in, and we can't wait to see how the idea grows.”

— Barbara Barry-Nishanian, President, Georgia Poetry Society

What’s next

Communities across Georgia are invited to join the Georgia Poetry Project at any time during April's National Poetry Month. Those interested in participating can contact Michelle Alderman at the Georgia Poetry Society for more information.

The takeaway

The Georgia Poetry Project's collaboration with the Monroe–Walton Center for the Arts brings a unique opportunity for the local community to engage with poetry in unexpected and creative ways, fostering a greater appreciation for the art form and strengthening community connections.