There has been much to process in the past two weeks and even that feels like an understatement. One of the many personal goals that I’ve taken away from all of this is to listen more and that allowed me to discover ArticulateNYC.
ArticulateNYC does absolutely fantastic open mic sessions and welcomes a wide variety of art forms – from haikus to paintings and everything in-between. I tuned into their Instagram Live Saturday evening and each guest certainly delivered, leaving even the host @itsreallysa speechless after their performances.
The first artist to take the virtual stage was halvcast, who masked his face so that he could rap without judgment from us and the brands that sponsor him.
A beautiful London accent graced his poetic lines, each ringing loud and clear before the backdrop of current events. I highly suggest you check out his single on Apple Music and pay close attention to the lyrics.
Next up was a phenomenal poet, @i_am_cthomas, whose humble introduction hardly prepared us for the powerful lines he dropped on our ears. Luckily some are in print! You can purchase his book Bernard’s Bedroom via his website.
The poetry continued with @iamkimbmiller, who delivered volumes of thought within the short confines of a Haiku. It reminded me of the Haiku tournament I attended by @thehaikuguys a while back, which proved that the short form was not to be taken lightly. Kim’s delivery and power of voice transformed these short snippets into powerful mini-speeches. She also delivered something that I believe the community really needs right now – smiles.
Physical art was then shared by @art567james and I was so engrossed in looking at it that I actually forgot to take a screenshot of this segment of the Live. Instead enjoy this clearer picture of one of his works:
Just when we thought that it couldn’t get any better, the art medium changed again and we were blessed by the angelic voice of @meltellem_.
These are only a few of the talented artists that hopped in to perform on the open mic. Their creativity astounded us and I can only hope that this movement will allow them to find the much larger audience that they deserve.
Short Skirt Long Jacket 
I really appreciate you taking the time to write, in detail, about the performances. Your insight on my haiku was greatly appreciated. I try to make them memorable and I’m grateful they spoke top you.
Thank you so much for tuning in and for writing this heart felt piece! You captured the event perfectly. We greatly appreciate it.