We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sierra Mercer. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sierra below.

Hi Sierra , thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Close to 12 years ago, I joined a poetry site dedicated to a collective of creative writers and artists. With so many genres to choose from to share stories, I chose the erotic style of poems to explore. I garnered a ton of supporters, and learned so much as a poet from that community – which served as a catalyst for my latest venture.
Last fall, I wrote a short film based on my erotic poetry. It has yet to be released, however, it’s my most meaningful project. A feeling of nostalgia was imparted when I channeled new energy as a writer producing sexual content, as it did when I was a young child inquiring about playwriting. It’s the most fun I’ve had with any project – exploring different ranges of my creative writing abilities. The film is called ‘EROTICTRY’.™ Look out for that!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Sierra, known to many as CeCe – and I was born and raised in Harlem, NYC. Although melanated people have suffered greatly due to racism and discrimination, The Great Migration fostered growth when our people created a new city within a larger city – filled with rich culture. Harlem.
Style, music, art and creative writing were at the forefront of the successes amongst melanated artists.
It’s no wonder African American studies have played a direct role in my life as a writer. I was impacted from a young age discovering stories about literary giants in The Harlem Renaissance. It wasn’t long before I started writing short stories that gained attention from our borough president and mayor. I won awards in school competitions in my district, and received monetary prizes. I went on to write music, novels and plays.
Since dipping my feet into the filmmaking industry, much more of my time and energy is required. I’ve learned so much since switching gears, and have provided opportunities for amateur talent that have always desired a space to showcase their skills. It is my duty to always motivate others to leave their mark on the world.
As an adult woman with my own tribe dedicated to the arts, I am both proud and fascinated to watch my husband’s artistic expression in his drawings, my son’s progress of mastering his own works, my three daughters’ rise in creative freedom in visual storytelling. The little girl in me boast with gladness to have five people to look to for ideas and inspiration.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Absolutely! Ahead of film day, I equipped myself for difficult situations that can affect the outcome of production, and the set. I learned fast that no amount of preparation can warn you about the challenges that comes – when dealing with a host of different personalities. I dealt with casting crew members attempting to subvert my expectations, questioning my script, disrespecting the regulations of set, creating hostile work environments and outright judging my methods of filmmaking.
At any moment, I could’ve retuned the energy that was bestowed to me. Instead, I remained positive throughout the experience. I communicated healthily, and spoke well of those who played a part in my project. My resilience, strength and determination wouldn’t allow anyone to validate where I am, regardless if there are power struggles when a woman is an authority figure.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The actual art of writing. If I didn’t receive accolades, recognition or a paid gig for my craft – I’d be most content with having the gift to jot down words that matter to me. It’s an important accomplishment that is personal. I know I was purposed to do this.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cecelyricproductions.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/cecelyricproductions?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/CeCeMist
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@CeCeLyricProductions?si=UGa0mix_S314TFbj

Image Credits
CeCeLyric Productions