Everkesia Taylor: The Poet Who Lives and Breathes Her Art
In the heart of Tampa, Florida, where the vibrant arts scene thrives, one name stands out: Everkesia Taylor. A poet, author, and founder of the "I Am Poetry" brand, Everkesia has made it her mission to create a space where words and art collide, inspiring both creators and audiences alike.
A Poet’s Journey Begins
Everkesia’s love for poetry blossomed during her time at Blake High School, where she majored in Creative Writing. It was here that she first encountered the powerful verses of Nikki Giovanni, Maya Angelou, Al Young, and Rita Dove—poets whose words resonated deeply with her. “I remember reading Nikki Giovanni’s poem and thinking, ‘Wow, I want to make someone feel the way she makes me feel,’” she recalls. That moment marked the beginning of a journey that would see her become a favorite poet for many, her words touching hearts and guiding others on their journeys.
The Writing Process: An Emotional Outlet
For Everkesia, poetry is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a lifeline. She writes when she has something to say, when emotions run deep, or when she needs to reflect. “Usually, when heavy emotions occur, I write,” she shares. “Or when I just want to challenge myself because it is fun to do.” This raw, authentic approach to writing has allowed her to connect with readers on a deeply personal level, offering them poems that resonate long after they’ve been read.
The Birth of “I Am Poetry”
The "I Am Poetry" brand is a reflection of Everkesia’s deep connection to her craft. The idea took root during a book signing for one of her poetry collections, when someone remarked, “You are what you do.” This statement sparked a realization: poetry wasn’t just something she did—it was who she was. “I do this so much that I am poetry. It’s become my life,” she says. What began as a phrase on a hoodie soon evolved into an entire brand encompassing apparel, events, and more.
Everkesia’s vision for "I Am Poetry" extends beyond her own work. She created the brand to provide an outlet not just for herself, but for the countless artists in Tampa who needed a space to share their work. “My mission with I Am Poetry was to make people feel seen and heard,” she explains. “To give creatives a platform and place they can go to create, share, network, and sell their work.” Her monthly poetry and art events have become a cornerstone of the local arts scene, offering a space where all art forms are welcome and celebrated.
Building a Creative Community
Hosting these events has become one of Everkesia’s greatest joys. “I enjoy meeting new people, seeing artists share their work. The creatives are all so talented and entertaining,” she says. These gatherings aren’t just about showcasing art; they’re about building a community. Everkesia has created a space where artists and spectators alike can connect, share, and feel seen. “Art is so relatable,” she adds, emphasizing the importance of these events in fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
Collaborations and Future Dreams
Everkesia’s passion for collaboration shines through in her recent work, including her poem "Love As The Lesson," created in partnership with visual artist Alorine. The poem and accompanying painting complement each other, offering different perspectives on the same theme. “I’m always excited about the upcoming I Am Poetry events,” she says. “I meet so many new people; poets and artists of all sorts. I gain new fans of my work.”
Looking to the future, Everkesia has big dreams for "I Am Poetry." She envisions curating more events, building her community, and eventually hosting an "I Am Poetry, Art, Music Festival." While funding remains a challenge, she’s determined to make it happen. “We’re working on it,” she assures.
A Poet’s Legacy
At the heart of everything Everkesia does is her desire to connect with others through her poetry. “My hope for my readers is for my poems to relate to them, resonate with them, and help them on their journey,” she says. As she continues to write, publish, and create, she remains focused on her ultimate goal: to touch hearts, inspire minds, and make others feel the way she felt when she first read Nikki Giovanni’s words.
In Everkesia Taylor, Tampa has not just a poet, but a creative force dedicated to building a community where art, in all its forms, can thrive. And for Everkesia, the journey is just beginning.