After a successful pilot in 2023, Arvon is excited to be partnering with Obsidian to co-host The Black Poetry Lectures 2026. Join us for a deep dive into the Black poetry canon, equipping you to explore what a decolonised poetry canon might look like and future-proofing the names of Black poets at risk of being forgotten.
Fortnightly in June, July, September and October 2026, four award-winning poets will explore four distinct areas of the Black poetry canon, looking at Black writers past and present from Africa, the US, the Caribbean and the UK.
Coming up:
Session Two
Poetry of the UK & Europe with Victoria Adukwei Bulley
Thursday July 9th 2026, 13:00-14:15 BST / Online / £10 Concessions: £5
Session Three
Caribbean poetry with Lorna Goodison
Thursday July 23rd 2026, 13:00-14:15 BST / Online / £10 Concessions: £5
Session Four
African poetry with Ama Asantewa Diaka
Thursday August 6th 2026, 13:00-14:15 BST / Online / £10 Concessions: £5
Recordings will be available to watch afterwards if you aren’t able to attend live.
All proceeds will go directly towards a bursary for Black writers to attend an Arvon course in 2027, supporting the next generation of voices and ensuring this work continues beyond the lectures.
Further info and to book here