Bunnell Street Arts Center has selected poet Lee Ann Roripaugh and fiber artist Abigail Kokai to be its April 2015 artists in residence. 

A Wyoming native and second-generation Japanese American, Roripaugh is the author of “Beyond Heart Mountain,” which was selected by Ishmael Reed for the National Poetry Series, “Year of the Snake,” and “On the Cusp of a Dangerous Year.”

Kokai grew up in Ohio. Her work reflects her interests in illustration, graphic design and interaction with objects. With her quilted objects she tells stories through visual communication and tactile experience. Kokai has taught and exhibited as a quilter and as an artist. Her quilts are in several permanent collections including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Bunnell received more than 170 applications for its 2014 call for applications for artists residencies to explore creative placemaking, community engagement, shared values and communal stewardship. Since it received twice as many applications as expected, it offers not one but two April residencies.