Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Parker
Hi Samantha, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Sam, I go by SamRay in the Las Vegas community. I was born and raised in the Las Vegas Valley. I grew up in the church, but always had a creative outlet. I’ve done theatre, painting, photography, pottery and poetry. I didn’t have the worst childhood, but it definitely wasn’t easy. I don’t think I would have been able to get through most of it without my creative outlets. Most recently, Poetry has become my whole world. I was invited to a Spotlight Poetry open mic in June of 2021 and have been inseparable since. My main goal is to put words where others can’t. Navigating tough feelings while also helping heal others.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey has been so far from smooth. From early on I’ve dealt with different types of abuse and mental health issues. I think growing up in the church comes with its own set of traumas, but I also dealt with my dad being murdered, my mom remarrying, childhood SA, grew up with money struggles, was bullied, was involved with much older men in my teenage years, got pregnant at 16, never could figure out who I truly was and so much more. The road I’ve walked on has always been full of hills and mountains and wanting to fall off so many times. But you know what Miley Cyrus says, life’s a climb, but the view is great. And I can’t wait to get there.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I think it’s probably easier to say what I don’t do. Starting with singing. I’ve done theatre since I was 5, I’ve been on the worship team at my church since I was 12 and did background vocals for 2 local artists. I’m also a painter, I’ve had a piece featured in an art gallery in early 2022. I do photography. I’m most known for my creative project “WOMEN” showing the different shapes and colors women come in. But mostly, I am known for my poetry. I am an internationally ranked poet, 5 time published, featured in books and magazines. I have been featured all over the west coast including the Utah Arts Festival and many venues across Las Vegas and compete in many slams, consistently placing top 3. I am proud of the work I’ve put to get here. I talk about raw and tough subjects that people are so scared to talk about, this sets me apart.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love the community. I have never seen a group of people gather and support the way Las Vegas has. Specifically Spotlight Poetry, they show up and show out. Las Vegas is such a safe and welcoming place to bring your art. I hate the weather here. If I could pick Vegas up and put it in the middle of a forest with rain every other day, I would.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_itssamray?igsh=NXVhbWlvejRtOTNt&utm_source=qr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@_itssamray?_t=8oPaeK2Mk6F&_r=1
