Vann Harris
Vann Harris is an artist born in Chicago and based in Oak Park. They have coached and mentored teens for over five years, while at the same time growing in both art and personality. An award-winning poet and dedicated rapper, Vann splits time between getting their degree and trying to make the world a safer place for those who feel unheard.
The impact of poetry and the spoken word club
Spoken Word helped me manage having social anxiety but still wanting to do things and go places that required being around people. Performing not only alone, but with a team, provided me with a sense of security I can draw on when I'm feeling nervous. Writing poetry allowed me to communicate in a way I hadn't ever been able to, to both further relationships and end ones that were hurtful to me. Spoken Word Club is also where I met some of my most important people!
Top favorite poets or lyricists
Poets: Gwendolyn Brooks, Terrence Hayes, and Raych Jackson
Lyricists: Earl Sweatshirt, Shing02, and Myself (which isn't a joke, I love my writing and love seeing my progress)
Writing Prompts
Write about a recurring nightmare
Write about someone or something you’re attracted to, but wish you weren’t
”I hope she never asks how…”