The Griffin Poetry Prize, a separate entity from the B.C. and Yukon program, is the largest international prize for poetry written in or translated into English, awarded for a first-edition single collection of poetry published the previous year. Two prizes are handed out annually, one international and one Canadian, and recognition is generously rewarded. Shortlisted authors receive $10,000, and the international and Canadian winners are each awarded $65,000. Two books published by Gibsons’ Nightwood Editions have garnered Griffin shortlistings this year: The East Side of It All, by Joseph Dandurand (also shortlisted for a B.C. and Yukon prize) and Pluviophile, by Yusuf Saadi. The winners are announced June 23.
In last week’s mention of Coast-published books shortlisted for B.C. and Yukon Book Prizes, we overlooked poet Valerie Mason-John’s nomination for the Dorothy Livesay Poetry Prize for her book, I am Still Your Negro. Mason-John is published off-Coast, but the accomplished poet, author, and public speaker has called Gibsons home for more than 10 years.
White’s words
Speaking of Coast authors and publishers, Howard White is, of course, both, and he’ll be reading from and chatting about his new book, Here on The Coast, from 2 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 24 in a virtual event put on by the Powell River Public Library. You can get the weblink by emailing mmerlino@prpl.ca.
Art callout
The Kube Gallery in Gibsons is looking for small-scale art-exhibition proposals for 2022. “Show us whatcha got!” say owners Jill Pilon and Jody Youngren. Include a proposal, website, and images of work in an email to info@thekube.ca.
Live music
Patio dining is still allowed under COVID-19 protocols, and the Clubhouse Restaurant at the Pender Harbour Golf Course is again offering live entertainment this weekend for those eating al fresco – weather permitting. Singer-guitarist Eddy Edrik entertains on Friday, April 23 from 4 to 7 p.m. The Peter Van Trio will be on the patio Sunday, April 25, from 2 to 5 p.m.
Space is limited in Art Beat but please let us know about your events at arts@coastreporter.net
