The 2026 Baker Artist Award Literary Arts Finalists Michael Downs, Ashley Elizabeth, Edgar Kunz, Bry Reed, and Justin Sirois were featured at the 23rd CityLit Festival, sharing readings that moved between humor, memory, vulnerability, and surreal imagination. The panel of writers were moderated by the illustrious Aaron Henkin, creator and producer of radio programs and podcasts.

In one featured reading, Justin Sirois recited a dreamlike piece centered on a strange, stoned dog wandering through oppressive summer heat as the world swerved to avoid it — a vivid meditation on alienation, absurdity, and observation. Ashley Elizabeth shared a deeply personal reflection on childhood mini-golf outings and Dairy Queen trips with their mother, tracing moments of tenderness, protection, and fleeting safety through the rituals of family life.

The festival highlighted the breadth of voices within this year’s Literary Arts cohort, from intimate autobiographical storytelling to inventive and atmospheric fiction and poetry.

Thank you to CityLit and photographer Corey Chiles (@_corevisuals) for capturing this Showcase.