We were lucky to catch up with C. Alexandria-Bernard Thomas recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi C., thanks for joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
I am not a fan of the saying, “Everything happens for a reason” but I believe in trusting the process. I had to tackle certain obstacles and barriers I put into place prior to becoming a full-time artist. Transitioning from a 15-year career as a dental practice manager/dental assistant to full-time artistry was scary. I was taught (like many of my peers) that a traditional 9-5 was the only true means of living. I had to unlearn that imposed way of thinking. Once I began the unlearning process, I felt a shift within me. It was pulling me closer to my purpose, my calling, my true love-poetry. Once that shift had full control, I was no longer in my way.
I am thankful for the professional navigation I acquired during my 15-years because I apply that professionalism when negotiating and speaking with universities and organizations that want to work or partner with me. Walking away from dentistry and into full-time artistry was a glorious thing. I have no regrets.
C, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am Queer Black Non-Binary, award-winning poet, teaching artist, an advocate for Child Abuse Prevention, the LGBTQIA community, and Mental Health Awareness. I began writing at age 13 and never stopped. My eldest sibling took me to my first open mic at age 24 and I was petrified! There were so many people and I felt out of place for several reasons, but I managed to muster up the courage to share and that day my poetry career (before I even knew it) began.
In 2015, I was named a pioneer of poetry by the National Underground Spoken Word Poetry Award (NUSPA). I’ve performed and spoke to audiences at Angelina College, Howard University, Prince George’s Community College, Thomas Jefferson University, Busboys and Poets (as a featured poet and host), Studio 2001 Art Gallery, The Athenaeum, and the Torpedo Art Factory, just to name a few.
I’ve partnered with the Northern Virginia Association of Fine Arts (NVAFA), Carlyle House Historic Park producing annual events highlighting African American excellence and leads their popular discussion-based writer’s workshop, Writing to Wellness™, that uses poetry as a tool for healing when navigating childhood trauma with Creative Suitland Arts Center and Heard.
My work as a community organizer has afforded me opportunities to educate adults on how to respond and react to Child Sexual Abuse through Darkness to Light’s Stewards of Children® and becoming a board member for Touch Me I’m Tellin (TMIT). In addition, I have received honorable mentions from World Childhood Foundation USA, Buddy Speaks, End the Harvest Ministries, publications by The Zebra, and more.
I’ve been told I am a true force of nature and a necessary voice for uplifting the community and inspiring hope and that witnessing perform, teaching in the classroom, or speaking is experiencing love in action.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The apotheosis of my artistry and creativity is knowing that my pain may know me; but it has no power over me. This is a driving force with all I do. And I am passionate about showing and telling others the same thing when I perform, teach, or speak. It is an important reminder for all.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My belief system is simple. Believe in yourself, stay focused, don’t drift and learn (from your surroundings and you) as much as you can!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.iamcthomas.net
Image Credits
Michelle Antoinette Nelson aka LOVE the Poet
Etc by Bri