Reflections Ep. 17

Rebel Poet has always been surrounded by great art and resiliency in her family. Her grandmother was a natural vivid storyteller and her Tio Pablo, who she met at age nine, gave her her first experience of live poetry. Watching her uncle get free with such intense passion for his work made a huge impression on Rebel.

Rebel Poet has always surrounded herself with artwork, visually and lyrically. To her, art is a place to get lost, feel her emotions, and watch people express their truths. Rebel has been a key player in bringing art to her community through the form of art, poetry, and music nights. She is an experienced curator and has worked to create small, intimate shows where people can interact with art and each other. 

What is Rebel’s advice to creatives?

“Don’t burn out or over extend yourself. As creatives we constantly struggle with feeling like we are not creating enough.”

It can feel like we are not producing enough work, but sometimes you have to step back and take a breather. In those times of needing to rest, get to know yourself again.  Relearn who you are as you’ve evolved and grown. Take a break. Then the new work comes out of that space. 

Stay Balanced and don’t overdo it. The idea that we have to keep outputting work and art is impossible to uphold. Everything on the earth has its season. To be in a constant state of output is exhausting. Give space to the work and to yourself. 

Rebel Poet plans to publish a book in 2024. She will continue to provide spaces for poets and creatives in the Tampa, Florida  area to heal through using the power of their voices.