Unique Sixteen
Oppenstein Brothers Memorial Park, September 11th, 5:30 PM
Bio: I create poetry infused with visual storytelling, blending words and imagery to inspire hope, resilience, and collective action. My work is deeply influenced by Hopepunk, a literary genre that champions radical kindness, communal resistance, and the fight for a better world against apathy and cynicism.
At the heart of my art is the belief that change is possible, not through superheroes or singular saviors, but through ordinary people coming together. My poetry embodies this spirit, serving as both a call to action and a source of reflection. Through my work, I challenge narratives of despair, offering instead a vision of perseverance and defiant optimism.
I use a multidisciplinary approach, combining traditional poetry with digital media. I produce my poems as music videos, host live events, and engage in community outreach to bring people into the creative process. My materials range from pen and paper to video production tools, allowing me to present poetry in dynamic, accessible ways.
The creation process is immersive—writing, visual composition, and performance merge to craftexperiences that resonate emotionally and socially. Each piece is designed to be more than just art; it is an invitation for collective participation and dialogue.
By embracing Hopepunk’s ethos, my work rejects fatalism, choosing instead to highlight the power of connection, empathy, and action. Through poetry and community engagement, I strive to create spaces where people can see themselves as agents of change, capable of shaping a more just and hopeful world.
In connection to the theme: My performance will embody the theme of *wonder* by exploring the extraordinary power of resilience, collective action, and radical hope in everyday life. Through poetry infused with visual storytelling and music, I will create an immersive experience that invites the audience to see the world—and themselves—with fresh eyes.
Wonder is not just about the unknown; it is about the ability to imagine and fight for something better. My work, deeply influenced by Hopepunk, challenges cynicism and despair, presenting a world where small acts of kindness and resistance shape the future. Through rhythm, imagery, and movement, I will transform poetry into a living, breathing force that sparks curiosity and reflection.
The performance will blend spoken word with cinematic elements, using projected visuals and soundscapes to transport the audience into a space where possibility feels tangible. By weaving personal narratives with broader themes of justice, healing, and hope, I will inspire a sense of awe—not just at what is, but at what could be.
Ultimately, my performance will invite the audience to rediscover wonder in human connection, in the courage to challenge the status quo, and in the simple yet profound act of believing in a better world. Through poetry, I will remind them that wonder is not just about seeing, but about *feeling*—feeling hope, feeling possibility, and feeling the power of collective transformation.
Socials:
Instagram: @Uniquesixteen
