Tag: 2020s Poetry

Read 2020s Poetry written by slam poets, cowboy poets, and literary giants inspired by the state of Arizona on AZpoetry.com!

atlas st cloud grey walls poem artwork | AZpoetry.com

grey walls by atlas st. cloud

March 4, 2025

“grey walls” by atlas st. cloud

i am laying,
in an empty room.

the temperature is steadily dropping
and frost begins to crystalize on my eyelashes,
playing tricks with my irises.

i am a green eyed boy,
but ice has got me seeing with grey.

grey halls
with grey walls
led me to this hallowed space.

i am laying,
in an empty room.

the ceiling is a motley crew of colors,
galaxies are being spun before me.
two stars collide,
FLASH. BANG. BOOM.
the void opens up.

i stare into the vastness,
and the void whispers back,
“ice cannot kill a phoenix.”

i am laying,
in an empty room.

the stillness of space has no place in this room.
wind begins to howl,
ripping at the walls with nowhere to go.
this wind has teeth and it bites at my skin.

anger manifests monsters,
and this one is trying to
rip, freeze, tear me apart.

i am laying,
in an empty room.

the walls are closing in on me.
i exhale quick and can see my breath in fog.
my skin is beginning to plasticize
and i don’t know if i can move.

there once was a door,
but i can’t move my head to see if it is still there.

i am laying,
in an empty room.

my shoulders start to itch.
warmth floods my systems
and i can feel it in my chest.
my heart begins to beat.

blood flows once more
and something is happening to me.

i am laying,
in an empty room.

my shoulders begin to burn.
a tingle to go along with the itch.
then, suddenly,
i am screaming.

when i wake up,
i am on fire.

i am laying,
in an empty room.

and i sit up.

Originally published in Zilch Qualms, a Phoenix Poetry Slam anthology in 2019.

About the poet atlas st. cloud

atlas st. cloud’s poem grey walls is a haunting meditation on isolation, transformation, and rebirth. The poem places the speaker in an empty room, surrounded by the creeping cold that distorts perception—turning green eyes grey, freezing the breath, and numbing the senses. As the speaker remains motionless, they are enveloped by a void, an expanse of darkness filled with cosmic flashes and whispered reassurances. The line, “ice cannot kill a phoenix”, serves as a powerful moment of foreshadowing, hinting at an inevitable resurgence from the paralysis of despair.

The poem’s structure mirrors a cycle of entrapment and eventual release. The repetition of “I am laying, in an empty room” emphasizes stagnation, reinforcing the feeling of being stuck in an unchanging state. Yet, amid the cold and confinement, fire emerges. The warmth first presents itself as an itch, then an unbearable burn, until finally, the speaker erupts in flames—literally and metaphorically. The transformation is painful but necessary, illustrating a shift from suppression to liberation, from numbness to an awakening.

By the poem’s end, the speaker is no longer trapped in stillness. The final shift—from lying down to sitting up—marks a triumph over stasis, a rebirth from the ashes of struggle. grey walls is a deeply evocative piece that captures the internal battle between despair and resilience, ultimately leaving the reader with the image of survival and renewal.

Discover more about atlas st. cloud and his poetry here on his poet bio page.

A Frothy Limerick About Gail by AZpoet Gary Bowers

A Frothy Limerick About Gail by Gary Bowers

March 3, 2025

“A Frothy Limerick About Gail” by Gary Bowers

A thirsty young lass name of Gail
Took a long steady pull at her ale
Then with foamy mustache
She proceeded to slash
Through guitar riffs that made the gods wail.

About the poet Gary Bowers

Limericks are a time-honored poetic form known for their playful tone, rhythmic bounce, and humorous twists. Originating from Ireland and popularized in English by Edward Lear, limericks follow a five-line structure with a distinctive AABBA rhyme scheme and a strong, rollicking rhythm that makes them particularly engaging.

Gary Bowers’ limerick embraces these conventions while delivering a vibrant and entertaining narrative. The poem tells the story of Gail, a spirited young woman who enjoys her ale before unleashing an awe-inspiring musical performance.

In true limerick fashion, the humor comes from the unexpected contrast: the image of Gail as a casual drinker, momentarily adorned with a “foamy mustache,” shifts dramatically as she erupts into a powerful, almost godlike guitar performance. The final line, “through guitar riffs that made the gods wail,” elevates Gail’s musical prowess to mythic proportions, transforming what begins as a lighthearted pub scene into an epic rock ‘n’ roll moment.

Bowers’ clever use of internal imagery, humor, and rhythm captures the spontaneous joy of music, the camaraderie of a lively pub, and the unexpected talent that can emerge in the least expected places. The poem’s energy mirrors the rhythmic nature of a great song, making it a perfect example of how limericks can entertain while showcasing a poet’s skill with words and storytelling.

Gary Bowers is known for his sharp wit, clever wordplay, and engaging poetic style. To discover more of his limericks, poetry, and literary contributions, visit his poet bio page here.

Joshua Wiss

February 28, 2025

Joshua Wiss: Spoken Word Poet and DIY Wordsmith

Joshua Wiss is a spoken word poet, musician, and storyteller based in Phoenix, Arizona. A poet of deep feeling and vibrant imagery, Wiss captures the essence of modern life, love, death, and the perils of suburban existence through his evocative performances. With a background rooted in the DIY aesthetic, Wiss merges raw emotion with carefully crafted verse, making his poetry a visceral experience for audiences.

A Veteran of the Poetry Slam Scene

Having competed at four National Poetry Slams, representing Flagstaff, Sedona, and the Valley of the Sun. Wiss has shared the stage with some of the world’s top-ranking performance poets, proving himself as a formidable force in the spoken word community. His poetry is as much a performance as it is an intimate conversation, pulling listeners into the rhythms of his words and the landscapes of his mind.

A Poet Rooted in Analog and Nostalgia

Beyond the stage, Wiss is a collector of stories and artifacts of the past. He can often be found tinkering with typewriters, playing musical instruments, or sorting through vinyl records at his day job in a record store. A self-described feeler with a voice, he embraces the analog world—a poet who revels in the beauty of VHS tapes, cassette players, and the timeless swing of Louis Prima.

Themes and Style

Joshua Wiss’s poetry is infused with powerful, often dreamlike imagery, reflecting on themes of:

Love and loss – Capturing the fleeting nature of relationships and memory.
Time and the universe – Questioning the cyclical patterns of existence and the energy that connects us all.
The human experience – Chronicling life’s highs and lows with authenticity and grace.

His poem Wallflower is a perfect example of his craft, blending themes of memory, presence, and the ephemeral nature of time. Lines like “every good party needs a Wallflower to stand witness and materialize memories” illustrate his unique ability to translate the intangible into poetic form.

A Legacy in the Making

Wiss’s work goes beyond spoken word competitions—his poetry is an experience, a ritual, and a reflection of the world around him. Whether performing at slams or connecting with audiences in intimate settings, Joshua Wiss continues to be a powerful and unforgettable voice in Arizona’s poetry scene.

Free Admission poem by Cylie Naylor | AZpoetry.com

Free Admission by Cylie Naylor

February 26, 2025

“Free Admission” by Cylie Naylor

the welcome sign to the gallery of my
heart reads free admission open every
day of the year and everything here has
some history and there’s plenty to see
on account of how I can fall in love so
quickly you know the average heartbeat
of a woman is about eight beats a minute
faster than a man’s which might explain
why it’s so hard to keep up with me so I
hope you’re up to the chase and I hope
you like what I’ve done with the place
take your time make yourself at home
enjoy the space you’re greeted with wine
and a waiver upon entry I’ve done
everything possible to ensure that it’s
not empty and that you won’t be bored
there are love letters scrawled on the
baseboards and the molding and the
hinges of every door it’s a bit chaotic
but you’re intrigued to see more and
please ignore the caution tape as some
rooms are still under construction but
there’s still plenty of me left for your
consumption there are some films about
Obsession and letters from past loves
held in resin the first hand that I held
in the first lips that I kissed this
room interactive at your own risk
because some before have been Reckless
cut their hands on my rough edges left
bloody finger paintings all over my
walls so I have something left to
remember them by
and this room a voicemail playing him
saying goodbye for the last time and
that room shattered glass covers the
floor for every bottle I never meant
more than
every piece of every heart that I broke
on my own accord and this room a single
framed portrait that neatly reads I’m
sorry for every time I messily couldn’t
and this place has a room decorated by
every love I’ve ever met I adorned them
with every memory and story they’ve
given me and on your way out I’ll hand
each of you an apology for anything
frightful that you might have seen But
honestly the one thing this place could
use is a little better security because
you are here every day
first in line to stake your claim as if
you couldn’t see that the biggest room
they gave me is already titled with your
name you are my largest most tragic
display for everyone to see The
Menagerie of the mess you’ve made of me
and when passersby say that you could
just spend days in this Gallery I think
about how there are 60000
miles of blood vessels within you
enough to go around the world twice
which is about how long that I would
travel to hear my heartbeat against
yours for one more night plenty of time
spent wandering trying to find you at
the right place or the right time and I
am the desperate Starstruck Basquiat to
your Warhol and I’ll walk endless Halls
haunted by crooked portraits of our
could have bins and every time I let
myself look around for too long you
become my muse all over again
I begged them not to let you in but you
never listen or you’re forced your way
through them but you’ll still find me
here and my ear is in a box on your
doorstep eager to listen for eternity if
you’ll just come home to me and I’ve
been busy scrubbing this place of your
memory but anyway
I’ll make some calls about that security
thank you for coming please take this
survey rating how much you all felt
loved by me.

Transcribed from the video “Free Admission” by Ghost Poetry Show and Cylie Naylor.

Watch Cylie Naylor perform “Free Admission” at Ghost Poetry Show on YouTube

About the poet Cylie Naylor

In Free Admission, Cylie Naylor masterfully constructs an extended metaphor of the heart as a museum—an open gallery where love, heartbreak, and memories are on full display. The poem invites the reader into an intimate, emotional space, detailing the artifacts of past relationships, the remnants of love lost, and the scars left behind by reckless visitors. The speaker’s vulnerability is woven into every exhibit, from love letters etched into door frames to shattered glass symbolizing broken promises. The museum is chaotic, unfinished, yet mesmerizing—reflecting the speaker’s emotional history and the lingering presence of a past love who still looms as the gallery’s most tragic display.

Naylor’s use of striking imagery and juxtaposition creates a powerful emotional impact. The speaker is both curator and captive, struggling to move on while still hoping for a return. The final lines—where the speaker acknowledges their futile attempts to erase the past while joking about improving security—underscore the poem’s aching vulnerability and quiet resignation.

With its blend of personal reflection, raw emotion, and artistic metaphor, Free Admission speaks to the universal experience of love, loss, and the struggle to reclaim one’s heart.

To learn more about Cylie Naylor and her poetic journey, visit her bio page here.

Eduardo C Corral

February 24, 2025

Eduardo C Corral: Arizona-Born Poet, Educator, and Trailblazer in Contemporary Latino Literature

Eduardo C. Corral is a critically acclaimed American poet whose work seamlessly blends cultural heritage with modern sensibilities. Born on February 25, 1973, in Casa Grande, Arizona, Corral has emerged as a powerful voice in contemporary poetry and Latino literature. His pioneering achievements—most notably as the first Latino poet to win the prestigious Yale Younger Series Poets award for his collection Slow Lightning—have cemented his place in the literary canon while inspiring a new generation of writers.

Early Life and Educational Roots

Growing up in Casa Grande, Arizona, Eduardo C. Corral was immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of the Southwest from an early age. The values and traditions of his family, rooted in the diverse heritage of the region, would later infuse his poetic voice with depth and authenticity. As a young student, Corral already demonstrated a passion for creative writing; an anecdote from his high school AP English class—where he crafted a poem inspired by Beowulf—hints at the early spark that would eventually blaze into a formidable career in poetry.

Corral pursued higher education with vigor, studying Chicano Studies at Arizona State University. His time at ASU not only deepened his understanding of his cultural identity but also honed his skills as a writer. He further refined his craft by earning a Master of Fine Arts from the Iowa Writer’s Workshop, one of the nation’s premier writing programs. These academic experiences laid the groundwork for his future contributions to literature and provided him with the tools to explore complex themes such as identity, loss, and social justice in his work.

Literary Career and Notable Works

Eduardo C. Corral’s literary career took off with the publication of his groundbreaking poetry collection, Slow Lightning (Yale University Press, 2012). Selected by poet Carl Phillips for the Yale Younger Series Poets award, Slow Lightning distinguished Corral as a fresh, innovative voice—one who masterfully captures the intersection of personal experience with broader cultural narratives. His work is celebrated for its precision, emotional resonance, and its ability to challenge and redefine traditional poetic forms.

In 2020, Corral continued to push artistic boundaries with his work guillotine, which earned him the 2021 Lambda Literary Award for Gay Poetry and was longlisted for the 2020 National Book Award for Poetry. This collection further solidified his reputation as a poet who fearlessly explores themes of identity and transformation, resonating deeply within both the LGBTQ+ community and among readers at large.

Throughout his career, Corral’s poetry has been featured in renowned journals and anthologies such as Black Warrior Review, Beloit Poetry Journal, Colorado Review, Indiana Review, Meridian, MiPOesias, and The Nation. His work reflects a diverse range of influences, including literary giants like Robert Hayden, Federico García Lorca, C.D. Wright, and José Montoya—each leaving an indelible mark on his evolving style and thematic focus.

Educator and Advocate for Creative Expression

Beyond his achievements as a poet, Eduardo C. Corral is also a dedicated educator. As an MFA Assistant Professor in the Department of English at NC State University, he shares his passion for writing and critical thinking with aspiring poets and students. His teaching is marked by a commitment to fostering creative expression and encouraging students to explore their own unique voices while engaging with complex cultural and social themes.

Corral’s involvement in initiatives such as the CantoMundo Writers Conference—where he was a founding fellow—demonstrates his commitment to building supportive networks for Latino and multicultural writers. By mentoring emerging poets and facilitating collaborative workshops, he has contributed significantly to expanding the landscape of contemporary American poetry.

Awards, Fellowships, and Global Recognition

Eduardo C. Corral’s contributions have garnered numerous accolades over the years. His impressive list of awards includes the Yale Younger Series Poets award (2011), making him the first Latino recipient of this honor, as well as the Whiting Award (2011). His work has also been recognized through fellowships at esteemed institutions such as Yaddo, the MacDowell Colony, and the Olive B. O’Connor Fellowship (2009). Most recently, his collection guillotine won the Lambda Literary Award for Gay Poetry in 2021, affirming his status as a groundbreaking voice in modern poetry.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Eduardo C. Corral’s work stands as a testament to the power of poetry to transcend boundaries and transform lives. Rooted in his Arizona heritage and enriched by a diverse educational background, his poems address universal themes with clarity and passion. As both a poet and an educator, Corral continues to shape the conversation around identity, culture, and social justice, inspiring readers and emerging writers around the world.

Jack Evans

February 20, 2025

Jack Evans: Illuminating Lives Through Poetry

Arizona’s Enduring Voice in Poetry and Healing

Jack Evans has been a central figure in Arizona’s poetry scene for over 40 years, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the Valley of the Sun. A celebrated poet, spoken word artist, and creative director, Evans is best known for his deep, soulful verse and his commitment to exploring themes of memory, loss, and the healing power of art. As the former Poet Laureate of the Southwest Conference United Church of Christ and the author of the acclaimed book Rain Is The Hourglass Of Memory, Evans continues to inspire audiences with his timeless work.

A Storied Journey from the East to the Southwest

Born on the banks of the Hudson during the twilight years of Roosevelt II’s reign, Jack Evans’ early life was steeped in history and literary tradition. His journey eventually led him to a little house overlooking the dusty Agua Fria when Lesley King ruled the land—a transformative move that rooted him in the vibrant, rugged spirit of the American Southwest. Evans’ love for music, film, baseball, and books has always colored his work, infusing his poetry with both a passion for cultural heritage and a modern, relatable voice.

A Life Dedicated to Poetry and Performance

For decades, Jack Evans has dedicated himself to the art of poetry. He writes, reads, thinks, and shares poetry with an enthusiasm that has resonated across generations. His work has been published in numerous literary journals and magazines, and he has performed in venues throughout Arizona and from coast to coast since the 1970s. Whether on stage at intimate local gatherings or at major poetry festivals, Evans’ performances captivate audiences with their blend of narrative depth and energetic delivery.

As a director of spoken word series for over 30 years, Evans has played a pivotal role in nurturing and showcasing emerging voices in the art form. Currently, he is the co-director of the Caffeine Corridor series in downtown Phoenix—a vibrant forum where poets and spoken word artists come together to share their work and inspire new creative connections.

Collaborative Performances and Healing Through Art

A notable aspect of Jack Evans’ career is his collaboration with guitarist Tom Bell. Their partnership, known as the Evans Bell Conversion, began with a memorable performance at Lawn Gnome Publishing on February 5, 2015. Since then, the duo has continued to push the boundaries of spoken word by integrating live music into their performances, creating immersive experiences that blend poetic narrative with melodic expression.

Their upcoming collaboration, showcased at the Healing Project, exemplifies Evans’ belief in the transformative power of art. This performance promises to be an experiential exploration of grief, death, loss, and change, inviting both performers and audience members to engage in a shared process of healing. Through conversation, reflection, and the potent force of the written word, the Evans Bell Conversion aims to help ease grief-related suffering and inspire hope.

Legacy and Impact on Arizona Poetry

Jack Evans’ legacy is a testament to his lifelong commitment to poetry and the arts. His work not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Arizona but also serves as a catalyst for healing and community connection. Evans’ influence extends far beyond his individual performances—he has nurtured countless emerging poets through his workshops, events, and creative leadership.

Living in Phoenix with his wife Judy, his dog, his cat, four parakeets, and a trusty laptop, Evans continues to embody the spirit of creativity and resilience. His ongoing contributions to the local poetry scene make him a cornerstone of Arizona literature, ensuring that the voices of the past, present, and future are heard and celebrated.

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Katherine Larson

February 20, 2025

Katherine Larson: Scientist, Poet, and Voice of the Natural World

Katherine Larson is a celebrated American poet, molecular biologist, and field ecologist whose unique blend of scientific insight and lyrical artistry captures the delicate interplay between nature and human experience. As the 2010 winner of the prestigious Yale Series of Younger Poets Competition and the author of the acclaimed collection Radial Symmetry (Yale University Press, 2011), Larson’s work has resonated with readers and critics alike, establishing her as one of Arizona’s most compelling contemporary voices.

Early Life and Educational Roots

Born into a family that valued both education and the natural world, Katherine Larson’s early experiences laid a strong foundation for her dual passions. Her father, a professor of forestry and environmental science, and her mother, a dedicated fourth-grade teacher with a passion for science, instilled in her an early love for learning and the environment. Growing up with these influences, Larson developed a curiosity about the world that would later become the cornerstone of her poetry and scientific research.

After graduating from Flagstaff High School in 1996, Larson pursued higher education at the University of Arizona, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and English. This unique combination of studies allowed her to bridge the gap between the analytical world of science and the expressive realm of literature. Her academic journey continued as she earned an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Virginia, where she was recognized as a Henry Hoyns Fellow—a testament to her emerging talent and dedication to her craft.

The Emergence of a Poetic Voice

Larson’s poetry is characterized by its keen observations of the natural world and its exploration of the human condition through the lens of science. Her work has been featured in numerous anthologies and respected literary journals, including AGNI, Poetry, Boulevard, The Kenyon Review, The Massachusetts Review, Notre Dame Review, and Poetry Northwest. Influenced by literary giants such as Marianne Moore, Elizabeth Bishop, Pablo Neruda, and Tomas Tranströmer—as well as by Irish poets Medbh McGuckian, Ciaran Carson, and Seamus Heaney during a formative semester in Ireland—Larson’s verses seamlessly blend scientific precision with lyrical beauty.

Her acclaimed poetry collection, Radial Symmetry, reflects this synthesis. Praised for its “extraordinary wakefulness” and its immersive, nuanced portrayal of the natural world, the collection invites readers to experience nature not as a distant, abstract force but as a tangible, ever-present influence on everyday life. Reviews in The Independent and The Paris Review have lauded Larson for her ability to transform the natural environment into a living, breathing narrative that speaks to both our sensory experiences and our inner lives.

Interdisciplinary Projects and Collaborations

Katherine Larson’s commitment to exploring the intersection of nature and art extends beyond the page. In 2009, she collaborated with artist Heather Green on The Ghost Net Project at the University of Arizona’s Poetry Center. This innovative project involved the creation of 25 shadow boxes constructed from salvaged shrimp-boat wood, each paired with a poem by Larson. The installation examined cultural and ecological relationships in the Gulf of California—a region where Larson had spent six months living and working. The project not only highlighted her creative vision but also underscored her dedication to environmental advocacy and cultural dialogue.

A Life Bridging Science and Art

Balancing her career as a research scientist in molecular biology with her poetic pursuits, Larson embodies the rare synthesis of scientific inquiry and artistic expression. Her work in the lab informs her poetry, providing a meticulous attention to detail and a profound understanding of natural processes. In turn, her writing brings a poetic sensibility to her scientific endeavors, allowing her to communicate complex ideas with clarity and beauty.

Living in Tucson, Arizona with her husband and daughter, Larson remains deeply connected to the landscapes that have inspired her work. Her poetry not only reflects the physical beauty of the Southwest but also serves as a meditation on the intricate relationships between human beings and the environment. Through her writing, she encourages readers to look more closely at the world around them, to appreciate the interplay between nature and culture, and to find meaning in the rhythms of the natural world.

Awards, Honors, and Continuing Influence

Katherine Larson’s work has garnered numerous accolades over the years. In 2010, she was selected by esteemed poet Louise Glück as the winner of the Yale Series of Younger Poets Competition—a recognition that marked a significant milestone in her career. Her collection Radial Symmetry went on to win the Kate Tufts Discovery Award in 2012, along with the Levis Reading Prize from Virginia Commonwealth University and the ForeWord Magazine Gold Medal Prize in the Poetry Category. These honors reflect her talent and the broad appeal of her work.

Larson’s influence extends far beyond her published collections. Through her teaching, public readings, and active participation in literary communities, she continues to inspire emerging poets and artists, encouraging them to embrace the natural world as a source of endless creativity.

A Human Heart poem by Austin Davis | AZpoetry.com

A Human Heart by Austin Davis

February 18, 2025

“A Human Heart” by Austin Davis

I’m missing you,
so obviously, this cloud
looks like a heart.

Not the corporate, greeting
card, capitalist kind of heart,
all cartoonish and fake,

or the smooth shape
two swans’ necks make
when they’re about
to get it on
to some lofi jazz shit,

but a real heart.

This is the kind of heart
I’ve drawn at the bottom
of every love poem
I’ve ever written you.

This is a human heart,
gross and squishy –
as raw and intimate

as standing naked in the daylight
in front of your soulmate
for the first time.

This is the kind of heart
that makes sure
your hand pulls out a dollar

every time a homeless woman
tells a shopping cart
about her childhood.

This is the only sad, beautiful
little thing no poet could ever
find a way to capture
with a pen or a cigarette,

the soft, juicy peach
floating through our night’s
quiet chest, far too in love

with the way its sun
will always love the color purple
at 5 in the afternoon

to take another beat
or shed another tear.

About the poet Austin Davis

“A Human Heart” by Austin Davis is a raw, evocative meditation on the authenticity of emotion and the vulnerability of love. In the poem, Davis contrasts the clichéd, superficial representations of the heart with a depiction of a “real” human heart—messy, imperfect, and deeply intimate. He uses vivid imagery and unconventional metaphors—from clouds shaped like hearts to the tactile, almost grotesque nature of genuine emotion—to underscore that true love and humanity cannot be neatly packaged or commodified. Instead, they are embodied in every deeply personal and flawed moment, whether it’s the act of drawing a heart in a love poem or the bittersweet experience of witnessing another’s struggles. The poem challenges us to appreciate the beauty in raw, unfiltered emotion, inviting us to embrace our authentic selves, imperfections and all.

Discover more about Austin Davis, his unique poetic vision, and his contributions to Arizona’s vibrant literary scene by visiting his full bio HERE.

Sean Avery Medlin

February 13, 2025

Sean Avery Medlin: Hip-Hop Nerd, Gamer, and Provocative Wordsmith

Sean Avery Medlin (he/they) is an innovative poet, playwright, and cultural advocate based in Arizona. A self-described gamer and hip-hop nerd, Medlin’s work boldly questions the limits of Black masculinity, media misrepresentation, and personal narrative. With a dream to create rap, poetry, prose, and performance full-time, they channel their passions into art that is as provocative as it is deeply personal.

A Unique Voice in Contemporary Culture

Medlin’s creative journey is defined by a distinct perspective that fuses elements of hip-hop culture, gaming, and speculative fiction. Their only wish in this world is to watch an unproblematic Black sci-fi TV show—a desire that humorously encapsulates the challenges and contradictions of contemporary media representation. This blend of cultural critique and self-aware humor fuels their work, inviting audiences to reconsider familiar narratives through a fresh, critical lens.

Literary and Performance Achievements

Sean Avery Medlin’s work spans multiple genres and platforms. As a performance poet and playwright, they have been a vibrant presence on stages across Arizona and beyond. Their thought-provoking pieces have graced prominent platforms and festivals, including the 2020 Tucson Poetry Festival and the 2018-2019 Chicago Hip-Hop Theater Festival. Their dynamic presence in the literary world has also led to features in notable publications such as the Phoenix New Times, Chicago Tribune, Los Angeles Review of Books, Teen Vogue, Afropunk, and Blavity.

Medlin’s artistic output includes a hip-hop play and album titled “skinnyblk,” available online at superseanavery.com, and their debut collection of essays and poetry, “808s & Otherworlds: Memories, Remixes, & Mythologies,” published by Two Dollar Radio. This collection is available in audio, digital, and print formats throughout the U.S., the U.K., and Canada, solidifying their reputation as a multifaceted and boundary-pushing artist.

Educator and Cultural Leader

In addition to their creative work, Sean Avery Medlin is committed to nurturing the next generation of writers and cultural activists. They teach creative writing on the side, sharing their passion for language and storytelling with students and emerging artists alike. Medlin also guides artistic and cultural work for various organizations across Arizona, helping to shape a more inclusive and dynamic arts community.

Their work in education is not just about imparting technical skills; it’s about inspiring a deeper understanding of identity and empowering others to question dominant narratives. Through their teaching, Medlin encourages students to explore the intersections of race, gender, and media representation, fostering critical thinking and creative expression.

A Vision for the Future

Sean Avery Medlin’s ambitions extend far beyond the classroom and stage. With a clear vision to create and perform full-time, they continue to push the boundaries of what poetry and performance can be. Their work is a call to action—a reminder that art is a powerful tool for challenging societal norms and advocating for change. Medlin’s unique voice, which melds hip-hop, gaming culture, and incisive social commentary, is paving the way for a new era of artistic expression in Arizona and across the globe.

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Gary Bowers

February 13, 2025

Gary Bowers: Multimedia Poet and Creative Innovator of Central Arizona

Gary Bowers is a pioneering multimedia poet who has been electrifying audiences in central Arizona since 2007 with his innovative blend of spoken word, visual art, and performance. Known for his unique approach to poetry—where language meets imagery—Bowers has become a fixture in the local arts scene, transforming traditional poetry into an immersive, multimedia experience.

A Journey into Multimedia Poetry

Since 2007, Gary Bowers has been at the forefront of Arizona’s poetry scene, performing at a wide range of local venues that celebrate creativity and innovation. His dynamic performances have been featured at Sound Effects, Monsoon Voices, Balboa House Poetry, Poetry at the Puppet Theatre, and Caffeine Corridor. Bowers’ work stands out for its fusion of classic poetic forms with modern visual techniques. Many of his poems are crafted as concrete poems, using acrostics and portraiture to visually illustrate his powerful messages, creating an art form where words are as much seen as they are heard.

Literary Contributions and Achievements

Bowers is not only a compelling performer but also a prolific writer. He is the author of Lives of the Eminent Poets of Greater Phoenix, Arizona, a work that celebrates the literary heritage of the region and highlights the contributions of local poets. This publication underscores his deep commitment to the Phoenix poetry community and his passion for elevating the voices of his fellow artists.

In 2010, Bowers achieved national recognition as the Second-Place Winner of Roger Ebert’s Great Limerick Contest. This accolade is a testament to his skill in blending humor with poetic form. As part of his award, he received an Edward Lear lithograph featuring a bird and a copy of The Owl and the Pussy-Cat—autographed by none other than Roger Ebert himself. This unique honor reflects Bowers’ ability to bridge the gap between high art and popular culture, infusing his work with wit and unexpected charm.

A Creative Force in Central Arizona

Residing in Cottonwood, Arizona, Gary Bowers has become a vital part of the local cultural landscape. His performances and public readings not only entertain but also challenge audiences to see poetry through a new, transformative lens. Bowers’ approach to poetry is deeply rooted in the spirit of Arizona, drawing inspiration from the region’s natural beauty, cultural diversity, and vibrant community life.

Through his innovative use of multimedia techniques, he has expanded the boundaries of what poetry can be. By incorporating visual elements like acrostics and graphic imagery into his work, he creates poems that are not only heard but also seen—a fusion that has captivated local audiences and continues to inspire poets and artists across the state.

Impact on the Arizona Poetry Scene

Gary Bowers’ contributions to Arizona poetry have made him a respected figure among local artists and audiences alike. His willingness to experiment and push creative boundaries has opened new avenues for expression in the region, setting a high standard for multimedia poetry. Bowers has played an instrumental role in shaping the cultural identity of central Arizona’s literary community, providing a platform for dialogue and creative exchange.

His work has resonated with those who value innovation and authenticity in art, and his efforts to spotlight local talent and celebrate regional literary heritage have left a lasting impact on the Arizona poetry scene. Bowers’ dedication to his craft continues to foster a creative environment where artists can explore new forms of expression and where the spirit of Arizona is celebrated in all its diverse glory.

Discover More About Gary Bowers

For poetry enthusiasts and art lovers eager to explore the dynamic world of Arizona poetry, Gary Bowers’ multimedia performances and written works offer a unique and captivating experience. His blend of spoken word, visual art, and innovative poetic form invites audiences to reimagine the possibilities of language and art. For a deep dive into Bowers’ work, visit his website: https://gwbcreations.org/.