Hill-Stead Museum receives funding from Connecticut Humanities for the 2014 Sunken Garden Poetry Festival

Hill-Stead Museum is thrilled to announce that it is a recipient of a public presentation implementation grant from Connecticut Humanities for the Museum’s 2014 Sunken Garden Poetry Festival.

This year marks the 21st year of the Festival, a renowned literary and music series for poetry fans from across the state and New England each summer in the museum’s beautiful Sunken Garden. The performance series has featured nationally-recognized and award-winning poets including Billy Collins, Yusef Komunyakaa, Maxine Kumin, C.K. Williams and Grace Paley, and has drawn annual audiences of more than 5,000. Committed to nurturing the art of poetry locally and nationally, Hill-Stead also sponsors an annual high school poetry competition and, in partnership with Tupelo Press, an annual  adult poetry competition. The work of winners at each level is highlighted during the Festival. The 2014 Sunken Garden Poetry Festival dates and events will be announced this spring.

“We are extremely excited about this summer’s Sunken Garden Poetry Festival,” said Susan Ballek, Executive Director and CEO of Hill-Stead Museum. “We are so grateful to Connecticut Humanities for its continued support of Hill-Stead and the Sunken Garden Poetry Festival, which is such an integral part of our programming. We are looking forward to announcing this summer’s poets soon.”

“Connecticut Humanities is delighted to continue our support the Sunken Garden Poetry Festival.  For over 20 years, this festival has brought America’s most accomplished poets to one of the most beautiful venues in Connecticut,” said Connecticut Humanities Executive Director Stuart Parnes. “When we talk about ‘Connecticut Treasures’ this is surely near the top of any list. An evening of poetry in the Sunken Garden is an unforgettable experience.”

Connecticut Humanities (CTH) is a non-profit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities that funds, creates and collaborates on hundreds of cultural programs across Connecticut each year. These programs bring together people of all ages and backgrounds to express, share and explore ideas in thoughtful and productive ways. From local discussion groups to major exhibitions on important historical events, CTH programs engage, enlighten and educate. Learn more by visiting www.cthumanities.org.