Date: 21 April 2012
Lemn Sissay is the first poet commissioned to write for The 2012 Olympics and his poem Spark Catchers will be etched into a structure in the Olympic Park. Lemn recently received an honorary doctorate from University of Huddersfield and an MBE from the Queen for services to Literature.
After a three year residency Lemn Sissay is now associate artist at Southbank centre. He’s been a poet and writer for his entire adult life. He’s read on stages throughout the world, Russia, America, India, Europe, Africa and Australia.
He is the author of five poetry collections. The latest is Listener published by Canongate Books. He has written various plays for stage and BBC radio. His play ‘Something Dark’ has been on tour around the world for seven years.
Lemn’s public art poems are emblazoned on buildings, in sculpture and in on streets in London and Manchester. Some have become landmarks. A documentary about Lemn’s extraordinary life and search for his father, Internal Flight, was broadcast on BBC2.
He is the inspiration behind GPS Global Poetry System an online resource for poetry behind public art. He also presents occasional documentary for BBC radio four and World Service. His artwork What If was exhibited at The Royal Academy of Arts in 2010. Lemn Sissay’s work is featured on albums, in books, in art galleries, online, on radio and upon the streets.
Venue: Slave Church Museum, 40 Long Street, Cape Town
CONTACT INFORMATION:
For inquiries: call 087 150 5446
Website: http://www.badilishapoetry.com/