Wendy Angulo Productions
Mariah is one of the ten Creatives who attended my Business of Art workshop this past November. As a true Trailblazer, she came ready to learn everything she needed to know to be a creative and a businesswoman. Mariah also brought her mom, who is a motivational speaker and creative as well. You will meet her in due time.
Today, I am happy and proud to share with you all who Mariah is and to use this platform to launch her poetry book “Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions.”
The most rewarding part of the work I do is to use this platform to showcase creatives like Mariah. I hope you all enjoy the interview and support Mariah by purchasing a copy of her book.
Tell us about yourself, who are you and what do you do.
I am a writer from Brooklyn, NY. I’m currently pursuing my undergrad in journalism. In January 2019, I’m releasing my poetry book, “Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions.”
What’s your background?
I was born in Manhattan yet I reside in Brooklyn, NY. I come from a loving family that has and continues to inspire my creativity and love for the arts.
Define your artistry…
My poetry book, “Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts & Emotions” will be released in January. I consider myself to be a poet and a writer for all things creative and musically inclined.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by those around me, including my family and friends and those who came before me. I’m inspired by what this world has to offer and the nature that surrounds us. There is so much in this world to write about and experience that it’s almost impossible not be influenced.
What does your work aim to say? What themes do you pursue?
My work aims to bring confidence and positive thoughts toward the women and youth of today. My work especially pertains toward young women as I feel their voices need to heard. They are the pillar of our society. My poetry book focuses on self-love, women empowerment, life, and brings awareness to many internal feelings of doubt and helplessness many young women face. Many of the themes revolve around race and are through my eyes as a young black woman.
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
As a writer and lover of spoken word, I’ve been praised for my pieces, including “What’s Next,” a piece I performed for BRIC Arts’ 5 X 10 Talk of 2016.
Who are your biggest influences?
My biggest influences are Maya Angelou and Rupi Kaur. I love the strength that these women bring and how they were not afraid to share their voices with the world as women and minorities in society.
Should art be funded? Why?
Art is complex and an amazing way for people to showcase and portray their thoughts, feelings and who they are. It’s a form of creativity that many can embrace and use to showcase their unique voice and personality. As humans, I believe that we need a way to express ourselves. Art is a way to do so in a comfortable way. Without art, we can hinder the growth and positive expression of our youth.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
My mom always tells me not to let anyone determine my worth or what’s best for me. This advice continues to be my stronghold. When you doubt yourself, whether intentionally or not, you’re allowing others that space to project their beliefs and ideas upon you. You have to believe in yourself and eventually, others will follow behind you.
What is your dream project?
My dream project is to open a gallery for artists to showcase their work. I want a safe space in Brooklyn for underprivileged youth to showcase their skills and unique talents.
What’s next for Mariah?
The next step for me is to continue marketing my book while investing in myself and my career. I hope to grow as a writer and network with creative people around the world. You can follow my Instagram and Twitter @realmariahth for updates on my book and any events I’ll be attending.
Mariah Thomas is a writer based in Brooklyn, NY and is currently a journalism major pursuing her undergraduate degree. Her passion is to use her craft to highlight society’s impact on the women and youth of today. Mariah’s love for writing started at a young age. Her active involvement with the NY Writer’s Coalition helped to shape and form her artistry. Through the organization, she has written and performed her poetry at different events, including the Fort Greene Summer Literary Festival and BRIC Arts’ 5 X 10 Talk of 2016. Mariah is set to release her first poetry book, “Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts & Emotions” in January 2019. “Heart and Soul” is a collection of poetry meant to encourage and showcase the beauty of being a woman in our world. The themes revolve around self-love, relationships, life, and internal struggles and doubts.
