Liberation 80th Poetry Open - SUBMISSIONS NOW OPEN!

In 1945 the Islands of Guernsey felt the relief of Liberation from the occupying forces. This momentous day has been celebrated annually by all who live (or have lived) in the Islands, and still has significant meaning to all. 

In 2025 we celebrate 80 years since this date, and reflect on, commemorate and celebrate this occasion in our shared history. 

To honour the milestone, we are thrilled to welcome our islands creatives to submit a piece of their own work.

Liberation 80th Poetry Open looks to use poetry, prose and the written word as a means for the community to share their words on such an important date in the Bailiwicks history. Entry requirements are as follows:

• Entries are to be centred around one of the following topics, with special focus on what happened after the war appreciated

• • Evacuation & the return of the Evacuees
  • Deportation & what happened to them
  • Occupation & rebuilding the Island
  • The German Forces & what happened after Liberation
  • The Liberating Forces & planning the Liberation of the Islands

• Entries are requested to be English, Guernesiais (with English translation) or a mix of the two.
• Entries can be in any style of poetry or prose
• Entries are limited to 24 lines and 240 words
• Entries can be from individuals or collaborative submissions (e.g. community groups, family groups etc)
• Entries will be judged by a panel of individuals based within Guernsey

Selected poems will be used to create a commemorative 80th Liberation anniversary book, used as installations within the Bailiwick of Guernsey, and may be requested to be recorded for use in promotion and audio installations. 

Background information on WW2 and the above topics can be found via Resources - Guernsey Museums (gov.gg).

For any issues submitting or queries please contact Guernsey Arts via info@arts.gg or 01481 220711.

All entries must be submitted by Friday 20th December.