Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Vanessa Matic. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Vanessa, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

It’s not the most meaningful project, but it has always held a special place in my heart. When I was a teenager I was given an instrumental track from Sonic Youth and Hanin of Atari Teenage Riot to use with my poetry visuals. It was the first time I worked with music, film and poetry all at the same time, It was a great experience which is what Agape Lodge Poetry Society is very much based upon.

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 was first being published in different magazines and books. My first ever published piece was at age 10 and after that I continued to do all sorts of creative things. I even modeled sometimes for a few friends. My scope of work was dependent on connections that I wanted to make. So, I met people through blogs that wanted to publish my work. My inspiration being artists who traveled and worked in nonconventional ways to create something new. I wanted to learn different cultures and to see, taste and feel life that way.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

As an artist, curator, and host of Agape Lodge Poetry Society the most rewarding is to get other creative minds together to showcase their talents while being present for each other. It’s amazing to see our strengths and to work on our weaknesses and just support one another. Each night is a new adventure and a chance to be one with humanity and make connections with art and life.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

We have to step away from this artificial art if we want true art to continue. We have to also, as a society, give back to artists. There needs to be a better support system- the very best artist could be working a full two jobs and they might not have much time to create their art at all. And in that statement lies the sadness of this hustling generation. Sure, it’s great to hustle but when does it become too much?

When can the artist be seen as who they are? I always am amused with stories of artist like Henry Darger, a janitor which had a hidden talent that wasn’t seen until he died. Im aware that some people do not want to showcase their art and that is totally ok. We, as a society, do not have much support for the many who crave and carve their days out for specks of time to create.

Many artists come to me asking, “how do I get this out there?” My answer is, you need a connection. Without a connection there is no next move. If you’re reading this and are asking yourself this question… I recommend coming to Agape Lodge Poetry Society to make those connections. It’s important to help one another. As new artist emerges each day to look for a purpose or a way to showcase their art.

Contact Info:

• Website: agapelodgepoetrysociety.com
• Instagram: agapelodgepoetrysociety

Image Credits
Joey Camello & Pamela Garcia