Poet Laureate

Rebecca A. Demarest

In 2026, ShoreLake Arts introduced their first ever Poet Laureate, Rebecca A. Demarest in celebration, of its 36th anniversary–just in time for the 6x6 art show. The new Poet Laureate position was created to celebrate the joining of words and art, create poetry to mark events and occasions, and mentor young writers in the upcoming Youth Poet Laureate position. Poets Laureate are a long-standing tradition for organizations, political bodies, and events, dating back to Ancient Greece. The name stems from the tradition of crowning the poet with laurel leaves to mark their distinction, though in Rebecca’s case, you are more likely to find paint absent-mindedly adorning her head than laurel leaves.

Rebecca (she/her) is a local award-winning poet, author, and educator whose work has been featured on NPR, in the Saturday Evening Post, and alongside other local favorite authors such as Cat Rambo. She teaches writing at local non-profits including Clarion West and the Bureau of Fearless Ideas, as well as at local and international conferences. If you would like to learn more about her or her work, please visit www.rebeccademarest.com.

In Honor of 6×6NW 2026

Media Most Mixed
For canvases so small
your gaze sweeps quite broadly
from insects to space-scapes
wielding acrylics ‘n wood
new techniques near old friends
your cash ready to spend!