Poets vocal in support of Baxter

James K Baxter

Renowned poets Bill Manhire and Glenn Colquhoun are doing their bit for the late James K Baxter.

They are supporting a sculpture project to celebrate the literary giant - forever associated with his time at Jerusalem on the Whanganui River. He died in 1972 and is buried at Jerusalem.

The Guyton Group Trust fundraising initiative aims to erect a sculpture of Baxter in Whanganui, and Manhire and Colquhoun will visit the town to speak and read as part of a National Poetry Day on August 25.

This year is the 20th anniversary of the national event and it is expected a record number of programmes for poetry lovers will be delivered up and down the country.

Baxter was a controversial

figure when he lived at his Jerusalem commune, but for fellow poets he is a literary icon who has influenced many, including Manhire and Colquhoun.

Bill Manhire has been described as "the father of New Zealand creative writing", and founded Victoria University's International Institute of Modern Letters.

Glenn Colquhoun, doctor by day, renegade poet by night, has won numerous awards for his work.

The pair will talk and read poetry at Sarjeant on the Quay.

Tickets for the fundraiser are available from Paige's Book Gallery at $20 each, including wine and nibbles.