Directory of Arizona Poets
Welcome to our comprehensive directory of Arizona Poets. This carefully curated collection showcases the diverse and talented poets from the beautiful state of Arizona. From the iconic landscapes of the Grand Canyon to the vibrant city life of Phoenix, our directory encompasses the unique voices and artistic expressions that thrive in this creative oasis. Whether you’re searching for established poets or emerging wordsmiths, our directory provides a platform to explore their works, gain inspiration, and connect with the rich literary scene of Arizona. Immerse yourself in the captivating verses and poetic journeys of Arizona’s finest wordsmiths.
Explore the works of seasoned wordsmiths and emerging talents who have found inspiration in the deserts, mountains, and urban landscapes of Arizona. From the rhythmic verses echoing the traditions of the Southwest to the contemporary expressions pushing the boundaries of poetic artistry, our directory celebrates the kaleidoscope of voices shaping Arizona’s poetry scene.
Discover the stories, emotions, and perspectives etched into each poem, creating a mosaic of experiences that resonate with the essence of Arizona. Whether you’re a poetry enthusiast, a fellow poet, or someone curious about the creative pulse of the region, the AZPoetry.com Poet Directory invites you to delve into the heart of Arizona’s literary soul.
Join us in celebrating the power of words, the beauty of expression, and the diverse voices that collectively form the poetry of Arizona. Navigate through our directory and be captivated by the myriad tales woven by these poets under the Arizona sun.
Aaron Hopkins-Johnson - Aaron Hopkins-Johnson is an artist and writer from Phoenix, AZ. The 2001 International Poetry Interpretation Champion has performed with the who’s who of the spoken word genre – Gil-Scot Heron, Saul Williams, Michael C Ford, Buddy Wakefield, B Dolan, CR Avery, Watsky, Diana Gabaldon, Lemony Snicket, Derrick Brown, Andrea Gibson, Henry Rollins, Rachel McKibbens, Rudy …
Alberto Ríos - Alberto Ríos: A Celebrated Poet and Storyteller Alberto Ríos, an acclaimed writer, weaves language into lyrical and unexpected forms, enchanting readers with his poems and short stories. His works reflect his Chicano heritage and incorporate elements of magical realism. Ríos developed a unique “third language” as a result of growing up in a Spanish-speaking family …
Austin Davis - Austin Davis: Poet, Advocate, and Founder of AZ HUGS Austin Davis is a multifaceted artist and advocate whose work spans poetry, music, and social activism. Born in Indiana, Davis found his creative and activist calling after moving to Arizona, where he pursued a degree in creative writing at Arizona State University. His deep commitment to …
Bill Campana - Bill Campana: 1990’s Poetry Slam Icon to Master of Writing With Style and Wit. Bill Campana is a poet who defies conventions and leaves audiences spellbound with his razor-sharp and entertaining poetry. With a career rooted in the vibrant 1990s poetry slam movement, Bill Campana has established himself as a versatile writer, exploring various styles …
C.S. Wortley - C.S. Wortley: Poet of the Arizona Desert C.S. Wortley, an American poet of the early 20th century, captured the stark beauty and profound solitude of the Arizona desert in his evocative verses. While less known than some of his contemporaries, Wortley’s work remains a testament to the power of poetry to convey the essence of …
Christopher Fox Graham - Nestled in the heart of Sedona, Arizona, amidst the striking red rock formations and the whispered secrets of the desert winds, resides a poet whose verses echo with the rugged beauty of the Southwest. Christopher Fox Graham, affectionately known as CFG, is not merely a poet and writer; he is a literary force that has …
Christopher Lane - Christopher Lane: Triumph and Tragedy Though his time with us was tragically cut short, Christopher Lane’s journey through triumph and struggle serves as a powerful testament to the impact of his words and the depths of his poetic expression. Christopher Lane, a talented poet from Arizona, bravely confronted the demons of addiction throughout his life. …
Clarence Urmy - Clarence Urmy: Poet of the American West Clarence Thomas Urmy (1851 – 1923) was an American poet known for his vivid and heartfelt depictions of the American West. Born in San Francisco, California, Urmy grew up amid the burgeoning cultural and artistic movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work is celebrated …
Corbet Dean - Honoring the Journey: Corbet Dean’s Poetic Odyssey In the realm of Arizona poetry, Corbet Dean stands as a remarkable voice shaped by a life-altering experience. It was an evening in May 1994 when tragedy struck, as three policemen were wounded by a lone gunman in Southwest Phoenix. Corbet, one of the injured officers, embarked on …
Cylie Naylor - Cylie Naylor: Voice of the Ghost Poetry Show Early Life and Inspiration Cylie Naylor emerged as a significant figure in the poetry community of Phoenix, Arizona, establishing herself as both a powerful writer and a compelling performer. From her earliest days, Naylor was drawn to the written word, finding solace and expression through poetry. Her …
Dan Seaman - Dan Seaman: The Poet of Prescott Longtime Prescott resident Dan Seaman’s poetry has been described as “romantic realism,” a term that captures his poignant exploration of love, loss, and the human experience. His work is deeply rooted in the everyday struggles and triumphs of the working class, reflecting his profound empathy and understanding of their …
Edward Abbey - Edward Abbey: Champion of the American Southwest Edward Paul Abbey, born on January 29, 1927, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, left an indelible mark on American literature and environmental activism. A fervent advocate for the American Southwest, Abbey’s best-known works include the iconic novel “The Monkey Wrench Gang” and the influential non-fiction piece “Desert Solitaire.” His writings …
Eirean Bradley - Eirean Bradley: Illuminating the Dark Corners of Human Experience Eirean Bradley is a contemporary poet whose work delves into the shadows of the human condition, uncovering moments of raw authenticity and illuminating them with stark, powerful prose. A 17 year-old Bradley discovered slam poetry by sneaking in a nightclub with a fake ID to see …
Erin Kong - Erin Kong: Bridging Diaspora, Trauma, and Storytelling Erin Kong is a second-generation Korean-American storyteller and scholar whose work explores the intricate and often poignant intersections of diaspora, death, and what they playfully refer to as “daddy issues”—a reflection on intergenerational trauma with a touch of alliterative humor. Their unique voice and perspective have established them …
Harold Branch - Harold Branch: From Hardship to Poetic Inspiration Harold Branch, is sometimes affectionately known as HB or Homebase. Or as he says in one of his most well-known poems, “I am the Kaiser Sozer of falling down.” This mini biography invites you to explore the transformative path that led Harold from adversity to becoming a prominent …
Jack Evans - Jack Evans: Illuminating Lives Through Poetry Rain is the Hourglass of Memory by Jack Evans Born on the banks of the Hudson River during the twilight years of the reign of Roosevelt II, Jack Evans embodies a poetic spirit that has flourished across generations. His journey led him to a humble abode overlooking the dusty …
James William Foley - James William Foley: The Poet of the American West James William Foley (1874-1939) was an American poet, journalist, and influential figure in the political landscape of North Dakota. Known for his evocative depictions of the American West, Foley’s work captures the rugged beauty and pioneering spirit of Arizona and the broader Western frontier. His contributions …
Jeremiah Blue - Jeremiah Blue: Poet, Performer, and Community Leader Jeremiah Blue stands as a multifaceted figure in the creative world, with a career that spans writing, performance, organizing, and hosting. Since 2006, he has been a cornerstone of the poetry community in the greater Phoenix, Arizona area, where his influence and dedication have fostered a vibrant and …
Jimmy Santiago Baca - Jimmy Santiago Baca: From Incarceration to Literary Triumph Jimmy Santiago Baca is a renowned American poet and writer whose transformative journey from a troubled youth to a celebrated literary figure stands as a testament to the power of resilience and the redemptive potential of the written word. Born on January 2, 1952, in Santa Fe, …
John Gould Fletcher - John Gould Fletcher: Imagist Poet of the American South and Southwest John Gould Fletcher (January 3, 1886 – May 10, 1950) was an influential American poet and literary critic known for his vivid imagery and innovative free verse. As a prominent figure in the Imagist movement, Fletcher’s work is characterized by its clear, precise imagery …
Lauren Perry - Lauren Perry: The Zombie in the World of Slam Poetry Lauren Perry, originally from Elgin, Illinois, has carved a unique niche in the world of slam poetry with her dynamic performances and eclectic influences. Now based in Phoenix, Arizona, Perry has become a prominent figure in both local and national poetry scenes, drawing inspiration from …
Leah Marché - Leah Marché: A Multifaceted Poet and Arts Entrepreneur Leah Marché is a distinguished arts entrepreneur, performance poet, and journalist whose dynamic contributions to the literary and artistic communities of Phoenix, Arizona, and beyond have left a significant impact. Born and raised in Phoenix, Marché’s work spans multiple disciplines, showcasing her versatility and passion for the …
Mary Hunter Austin - Mary Hunter Austin: Chronicler of the American Desert Mary Hunter Austin (September 9, 1868 – August 13, 1934) was a pioneering American writer and poet whose work captured the essence of the American West, particularly the desert landscapes of California and the Southwest. Austin’s deep connection to the natural world and her insightful observations of …
Mister Roberts - Mister Roberts: A Life Composed with Passion and Poetry Mark Robert Marshall, known to many as Mister Roberts, graced the world with his presence on August 5th, 1963, in the vibrant city of Ogden, Utah. However, destiny soon led his family to Phoenix, Arizona, where Mark’s roots would firmly take hold and shape his remarkable …
Myrlin Hepworth - Myrlin Hepworth: Poet, Emcee, and Teaching Artist Extraordinaire Listen to Myrlin on Soundcloud Myrlin Hepworth’s work is grounded in both hip-hop and the literary arts. Myrlin was named the Arizona Humanity’s Council’s Rising Star Award recipient for his work as a youth advocate and teaching artist. Over the better part of a decade Myrlin has performed …
Ragan Fox - Born in Houston, Ragan Fox is a multifaceted artist and academic who has left an indelible mark on the realms of poetry, performance, and communication studies. Armed with a BS and MA from the University of Texas at Austin and a PhD in Communication from Arizona State University, Fox is the creative force behind poetry …
Richard Shelton - Richard Shelton: A Legacy of Poetry, Prose, and Prison Reform Richard Shelton (June 24, 1933 – November 29, 2022) was an acclaimed American writer, poet, and educator who left an indelible mark on the literary landscape and prison reform through his work. As an emeritus Regents Professor of English at the University of Arizona, Shelton’s …
Roanna Shebala - Roanna “Rowie” Shebala: Illuminating the Voices of the Navajo and Zuni Tribes Roanna “Rowie” Shebala is a distinguished Native American poet, spoken word artist, and storyteller of the Dine (Navajo Tribe) and Shiwi (Zuni Tribe). Born into the Tsenjikini clan and raised in Fort Defiance, Arizona, Shebala’s work reflects her rich cultural heritage and deep …
Robert FlipSide Daniels - Robert ‘FlipSide’ Daniels: A Multifaceted Artistic Journey Meet Robert Daniels, a multifaceted artist known professionally as FlipSide. Throughout his career, he has donned the roles of a journalist, a playwright, a poet, and an author. Hailing from Southern California, Daniels’s artistic journey is marked by diverse experiences and a relentless pursuit of creative expression. Early …
Rosemarie Dombrowski - Rosemarie Dombrowski: Phoenix’s Inaugural Poet Laureate Rosemarie Dombrowski is the inaugural Poet Laureate of Phoenix, Arizona, and a prominent figure in the city’s literary community. She is the founding editor of Write On, Downtown: A Journal of Phoenix Writing, and rinky dink press, a publisher specializing in micropoetry in microzine form. More recently, she launched …
Ryan Brown - Ryan Brown: A Journey of Poetry and Community Ryan Brown’s poetic journey began in 2007 when he discovered Flagstaff’s FlagSlam, a vibrant poetry community that ignited his passion for spoken word. Brown, alongside a small group of like-minded young people, began writing poetry, eventually stepping into the role of Slammaster in the fall of 2008. …
Sara Teasdale - Sara Teasdale: A Lyrical Journey through Beauty, Love, and Loss Sara Teasdale: A Lyrical Journey through Beauty, Love, and Loss Sara Teasdale, born into privilege in St. Louis, Missouri, emerged as a prominent figure in the early 20th-century American poetry scene. As a young woman, she ventured to Chicago, where she connected with literary luminaries …
Sarge Lintecum - Introducing Sarge Lintecum: a remarkable individual whose journey from the battlefields of Vietnam to the stages of blues clubs and concert venues is nothing short of extraordinary. Sarge, a highly decorated combat veteran with three tours in Vietnam, discovered solace in writing about the unspoken traumas of war after two decades of living in near-seclusion. …
Sharlot Madbridth Hall - Sharlot Madbridth Hall: Pioneer Poet and Chronicler of the American Southwest Sharlot Mabridth Hall (October 27, 1870 – April 9, 1943) was an American poet, historian, and pioneering woman whose works and efforts have left an indelible mark on the cultural and historical landscape of Arizona and the American Southwest. Born in Lincoln County, Kansas, …
Shawnte Orion - Shawnte Orion: Arizona’s Poet of Modern Absurdity and Elegance Shawnte Orion is a contemporary Arizona poet whose work deftly navigates the absurdities of modern life, extracting nuggets of philosophy, religion, and mathematics to craft a unique blend of elegies and celebrations. Through his poetry, Orion examines the nuances of mortality, time, and human experience, often …
Sherwin Bitsui - Sherwin Bitsui: A Poetic Voice from the Navajo Nation Sherwin Bitsui is a distinguished poet whose work offers a powerful exploration of identity, landscape, and the interconnectedness of nature and culture. Born in 1974 in White Cone, Arizona, on the Navajo Reservation, Bitsui’s poetry is deeply rooted in his Navajo heritage and the stark, beautiful …
The Klute - The Klute: Unleashing the Power of Words for Sharks and Humanity Born along the captivating shores of Palm Beach, Florida, The Klute emerged with a deep affinity for the enigmatic creatures that dwell beneath the ocean’s surface. Nurturing a profound love for sharks, he became an advocate for their preservation, employing the medium of spoken …
Thomas Cooper - Thomas Cooper has performed poetry around the Valley of the Sun since 2018 and regularly hosts Ghost Poetry Show and the All-Arizona Maricopa Slam. Cooper has published collections, his most recent being “Revenge of the Snowflakes,” and competed with teams at regional poetry competitions. Discover and learn more about poets and poetry from Arizona HERE.
Tomas Stanton - Tomas Stanton: A Poet, Teaching Artist, and Advocate for Youth Empowerment Tomas Stanton is a multifaceted individual who has made a profound impact through his artistry, teaching, and community activism. As a poet, writer, and teaching artist, he has dedicated himself to advancing the arts of spoken word and Hip Hop, using them as transformative …
Tristan Marshell - Since the inception of his poetic journey in 1976, Tristan Marshell has been a dynamic force in the world of words. His foray into slam and performance poetry in 2004 marked a pivotal moment, catapulting him into the vibrant realm of spoken expression. Beyond the realm of poetry, Marshell has donned various hats, embodying the …
Wisdom Soul - Wisdom Soul: The Voice of Positivity and Healing From the tender age of 9, Serena Richardson, known in the poetic realm as ‘Wisdom Soul,’ embarked on a remarkable journey of self-expression through the written word. Her poetic odyssey began in 1997 when she graced the stage with her profound verses, earning her the moniker “Diva” …
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