Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Brittney Griffin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Brittney, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
My ASL poetry and creative content platform is one of my most meaningful projects. I began sharing ASL poetry inspired by my lived experiences as a way to express myself and connect with others. Over the past three years, it has grown into a space focused on inspiring and uplifting the Deaf community so people feel seen, understood, and less alone. I have a big dream and a strong desire to grow and succeed in this work.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Brittney Griffin, and I am a Deaf poet, content creator, performer, educator, and creative writer who uses sign language, visual expression, poetry, and collaboration to inspire connection and accessibility within the Deaf community. I am also a full-time mother to my three beautiful boys, and we live in Texas.
A few years ago, I began creating ASL poetry as a way to stay grounded and give myself a creative space to express my lived experiences and emotions. Over time, it became something deeply meaningful to me a way to stay inspired, connected, and emotionally present in my own life. As I shared my work and it reached others, I realized my heart is not focused on followers, money, or recognition, but on inspiration.
I create content that is deeply rooted in Deaf culture, authenticity, and emotional connection. I care strongly about accessibility and disability inclusion, which is why I intentionally include subtitles, visual descriptions, and clear communication in my work whenever possible, including for hearing audiences as well. I believe art should be accessible, meaningful, and welcoming for everyone.
Most quotes have a lot of metaphor that I relate to my own life and other people’s lives. To me, as a Deaf person, poetry feels like music without sound. The only thing I like about poetry is that I am not required to add sound, but it depends on what I write, and I either borrow music from social media as best as I can to make it fit. However, if I submit my poetry video to film submissions and film festivals, I will need to find someone who is good at adding a soundtrack to my video. Good question, how do I do that?
On my platform, some of my poetry is written in my own words, and some comes from quotes and pieces by other writers who inspire me. I also collaborate on ASL interpretations of music and content from YouTube, always embracing opportunities that show how Deaf creatives can thrive in any space. I enjoy bringing quotes and expressions that the Deaf community shares and loves into ASL so audiences can experience their beauty and meaning in a visual and accessible way. I always approach my work with humility, care, and deep appreciation for storytelling.
One day, I hope to host poetry workshops for all ages and open a Deaf-owned business a bar with a stage that creates disability-accessible spaces for poetry, comedy, live music, ASL performances, and community events. My vision is to build a space where Deaf and disabled creatives can come together, share their talents, and feel truly celebrated. If this dream comes to life, I am very grateful for everyone who supports and believes in my journey.
My goal is to create a warm, inclusive environment where people feel safe to express themselves, collaborate, and experience the joy and power of art without barriers.
“These hands are very expensive. They carry a whole language.” — Brittney Griffin
This quote reflects how I see my hands as my voice. ASL is how I communicate, express my feelings, and part of my identity and Deaf culture.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
My advice is to start by asking yourself what your motivation is for becoming a content creator and what you want your purpose to be. As a Deaf poet, my motivation came from my love of poetry and noticing a lack of Deaf ASL poetry content on social media. That inspired me to create content for Deaf audiences, interpreters, and anyone who enjoys ASL.
It is also important to ask if you are willing to invest time in research, filming yourself, responding to people, and editing videos. I have worked for free for a long time. Even with many followers, I do not get paid unless you reach monetization or an advanced level.
I am still learning social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. I focus more on meaningful content and real connection than just numbers. I know building a successful platform takes time, consistency, and learning how each platform works. I am still growing while staying true to my purpose and creative vision.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
Not only do I create ASL poetry videos, but I also explore projects that blend ASL poetry with other art forms. For example, I dance with paint while signing poetry, turning movement, color, and language into one expressive experience. I will share one of the pictures of it. I have also created other unique videos for film submissions, always pushing myself to think creatively and express poetry in different visual ways. My goal is to be original, expressive, and inspiring through every piece I create.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Paint poetry film by Lia Chapman
(Personal Photo) Simplicity Photography by Stephanie