here

\ ˈhir \

1. in, at, or to this place or position

   a) used to draw attention to someone or something that has just arrived

   b) used to indicate one's role in a particular situation

   c) used to refer to existence in the world in general

   d) used when indicating a time, point, or situation that has arrived or is happening.

   e) used when introducing something or someone

One of my favorite phrases to return to when I get caught up on the particulars of self definition is “You are not what you do. What you are is how you do it,” which is the closing refrain on Phonte’s “Such is Life” repeated by Kristi Ae in a dreamy loop. I am known in community for “doing” a lot of things (poetry, organizing, cutting up on Instagram etc…) but HERE is how I do it. 

I am an artist organizer baddie scholar. All one phrase like A Pimp Named Slickback. My “work” lives in the way these identities flow effortlessly into each other- I show up to every space wholly myself pulling from my extensive background as I curate and dream into experiences that are unique and lit. I transform spaces by being and bringing presence. 

In the words of one of my literary mamas Lucille Clifton:

“won't you celebrate with me what i have shaped into a kind of life? i had no model…what did i see to be except myself? i made it up.”

Here is what and how I make it. Thank you for joining me.

Banner Photo Credit: Stacy Keck