Month: May 2020

Jack Evans

Jack Evans: Illuminating Lives Through Poetry

Rain is the Hourglass of Memory by Jack Evans

Born on the banks of the Hudson River during the twilight years of the reign of Roosevelt II, Jack Evans embodies a poetic spirit that has flourished across generations. His journey led him to a humble abode overlooking the dusty Agua Fria, a place where the land was shaped under the watchful eye of Lesley King.

Immersed in the vast realm of artistic expression, Jack finds solace and inspiration in music of all genres and films from far-reaching corners of the world. He holds a deep reverence for the timeless game of baseball and the transformative power of books, which have shaped his worldview and ignited his poetic fire.

Poetry courses through Jack’s veins, weaving its way into every facet of his existence. As a poet, he gracefully pens verses that resonate with the human experience, effortlessly capturing the essence of emotions and thoughts. His works have graced the pages of numerous esteemed publications, and his voice has echoed within venues across Arizona and beyond since the 1970s, leaving audiences captivated and moved.

Throughout his artistic journey, Jack has not only embraced the role of a poet but also taken on the mantle of a director. Over the past three decades, he has curated and guided spoken word series, infusing them with his unique vision and passion. Currently, he serves as the co-director of the esteemed Caffeine Corridor series, breathing life into the downtown Phoenix arts scene.

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of his life, Jack finds solace in the city he calls home, alongside his beloved wife Judy. Within the walls of their abode, his creative spirit thrives alongside the company of a faithful dog, a wise cat, four colorful parakeets, and the ever-present companionship of a trusty laptop.

Myrlin Hepworth

Myrlin Hepworth: Poet, Emcee, and Teaching Artist Extraordinaire

Listen to Myrlin on Soundcloud

Myrlin Hepworth’s work is grounded in both hip-hop and the literary arts. Myrlin was named the Arizona Humanity’s Council’s Rising Star Award recipient for his work as a youth advocate and teaching artist. Over the better part of a decade Myrlin has performed for and worked with well over a hundred thousand Arizona youth, and tens of thousands of youth across the nation.

Myrlin has released two hip hop mixtapes and has performed his music internationally. Most notably he was featured on NPR’s Alt Latino podcast and has shared stages with the likes of Saul Williams and Mexican hip- hop mega-giant, Cartel De Santa.

Myrlin’s origins emerge from the rural landscapes of New Mexico and Idaho and have firmly planted themselves in the metropolis Phoenix, AZ where he first began his career as a professional artist and has lived since adolescence. His work as an educator and artist is reflective of his experience as a Chicano man and often aimed at critiquing, exposing, and commenting on identity, and systemic injustices.

In 2011 he earned his degree in English at Arizona State University where he studied poetry and has since given talks and performances at numerous universities and colleges around the nation, including every major university in Arizona, Michigan State University, The University of Puget Sound, Bread Loaf School of English and many more.

The Klute

The Klute: Unleashing the Power of Words for Sharks and Humanity

Chumming The Waters by Arizona Poetry The Klute Bernard Schober

Books by The Klute AKA Bernard Schober

Born along the captivating shores of Palm Beach, Florida, The Klute emerged with a deep affinity for the enigmatic creatures that dwell beneath the ocean’s surface. Nurturing a profound love for sharks, he became an advocate for their preservation, employing the medium of spoken word to raise awareness and champion their cause. From the majestic great whites of Isla Guadalupe, Mexico, to the graceful reef sharks of Egypt’s Red Sea coast, he has traversed the waves alongside these magnificent beings.

A poet of extraordinary talent, The Klute has represented the cities of Mesa, Phoenix, and Sedona at the National Poetry Slam a remarkable 10 times between 2002 and 2014. His poetic prowess has graced legendary venues such as Vancouver’s Cafe Deux Soliels and New York City’s Bowery Poetry Cafe, while also sharing stages with renowned spoken word superstars like Saul Williams and Amber Tamblyn.

In 2014, Brick Cave Media published a collection of his chapbooks titled “Klutocrypha, Vol.1,” showcasing the depth and brilliance of his poetic voice. His poems have been featured in anthologies published by Sergeant Press, Write Bloody, and Four Chambers Press, establishing him as a respected literary presence. In 2016, he embarked on a nationwide tour in support of his chapbook “Chumming the Waters,” followed by the release of his full volume of work titled “Words with the Men in Grey Suits” in 2017. Both works serve as a testament to his commitment to sharks, with all profits donated to Fins Attached, a shark conservation organization based in Colorado Springs.

The Klute’s unique blend of political commentary, sharp wit, and captivating delivery has garnered acclaim from fellow artists and critics alike. Jesse Parent, a prominent YouTube sensation from Salt Lake City, lauds The Klute’s ability to deliver honest and profound observations on the political landscape while maintaining an engaging and humorous style. Meanwhile, Ed Mabrey, a TedX Speaker and Emmy Award Winner, places The Klute among the pantheon of great political satirists, recognizing his insightful and impactful contributions.

Throughout his poetic journey, The Klute has amassed a collection of accolades, including being crowned the 2005 Mesa Poetry Slam Grand Slam Champion and achieving the status of Semi-Finalist at multiple National Poetry Slam competitions. His unwavering dedication to the craft has earned him the admiration and respect of his peers.