.jpg)
BIO
Rochelle believes poetry speaks louder than words: that poetry makes us feel, with an impact greater than other forms of communication.
Rochelle is a poet and spoken word artist from Toronto, Canada who loves Jesus and all things creative. Her heart is woven together by the contrast of her love for the urban, grit of hip-hop, and the classiness of ballet; by the exhilaration she feels at the top of a mountain, and the peace she experiences laying on a beach. These dynamic passions cause her art to speak directly to the souls of her diverse readers and listeners.
FAQ
WHEN DID YOU START WRITING POETRY?
Maybe the seventh grade? It's hard to think back that far! Since elementary school, I frequently wrote and read original poetry for special occasions at the church I grew up in. When I moved to South Korea in 2016, I tried spoken word for the first time through a group called Wordsmiths. That was also my first time sharing poetry outside of the church. It was a stretching experience, but it challenged me to grow so much!
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN POETRY AND SPOKEN WORD?
Poetry is written for the page, and spoken word is written for the stage. Poetry is intended to be read, while spoken word is intended to be heard.
WHAT'S YOUR WRITING PROCESS?
I don't have one particular writing process. Sometimes I write when I'm inspired by an experience, a person, or a sentimental object. Other times, I write simply because I was given a topic and asked to share at an event. In either case, I rely heavily on prayer to get started. As a Christian, I recognize that my ability to write poetry is a gift from God, so I trust He will give me the words and creativity to produce something great.
WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST ARTISTIC INSPIRATION?
Jackie Hill-Perry! She's Christian, female, and black - so I feel like I can relate to her in so many ways. I admire her versatility and how she has grown from doing poetry to also rapping, and now preaching and publishing books. Her theology is also on point!
Have more questions? Feel free to connect and get in touch!