Interview: StreetPoetz.com's Carmel 'Cece' Carson

StreetPoetz.com's founder Carmel 'Cece' Carson took the time to talk BWW.

MCL: You are the founder of StreetPoetz.com ... correct?

CECE: Yes, I am the founder of StreetPoetz.com

MCL: Are you a poet?

CECE: Actually, I am a former poet. I have been writing poetry since I was about 14, and when I was around 16 I began writing in a more freestyle spoken word style. While I thoroughly enjoy it and still write some today, most would never realize that I've never performed on stage. I leave that to the experts.

MCL: What is StreetPoetz?

CECE: StreetPoetz or StreetPoetz.com is an online venue and movement that we created for ALL types of visual and performing artists. We focus on not only providing marketing assistance and other services including branding and web development, but also an opportunity for those in the creative community to get their feet wet and learn at the same time. We try to position ourselves in a way that lends assistance to someone who needs additional support as they grow as an artist. One of the things we enjoy most though are the events. This is where we get the opportunity to merge all of the creative worlds together for one night and experience some of the hidden talent of our communities. In addition, we offer a free directory not only for artists, but also anyone who provides a service to artists as well as a free events directory.

MCL: How did you come up with its concept? How did it get its name?

CECE: Actually, my idea for StreetPoetz started out as an idea for a book. When I was in my first year of college, I was exposed to a lot of people from so many areas who wanted to "make it big". It seemed that everywhere I turned there was always someone trying to become a singer or hip hop artist. What I saw even back then was potential and I admired that drive. While we all know that the chances of becoming famous, (especially back in the 90s) was slim, what I did see was some talent that may never see the light of day. I was tired of meeting people whom I viewed as even more talented than those flooding the airwaves and I decided that I wanted to do something about it. I nicknamed these people "Street Poetz" and thus the name was born. As time went on, and the internet grew, I realized that not only did I need to think bigger, but that there was poetry in all things creative and so I wanted to make sure I left no stone un-turned.

MCL: I was at two of the StreetPoetz.com events and enjoyed both. Talk about the first event compared to the most recent one. How was it different?

CECE: The first event was our launch; our debut. This was an opportunity for people to learn about our mission as well as to see and discover something or someone new. The "launch event" was held at WNED, Channel 17 and featured more than 30 visual and performing artists from the ages of 18 up. We wanted people to experience artistic overload from the visual and performing artists down to the food. Every detail was just as important and the audience seemed to really appreciate that. We were humbled to see over 200 people throughout the evening.

While we have been a part of events since, either by sponsoring or participating & volunteering, our latest event took place just this year at Shea's Smith Theatre. This event was smaller and more intimate but allowed for almost 30 visual and performing artists, including dance which was new for us this year.

MCL: Will you change anything?

CECE: We continually do! I think to be successful, you always have to be open to change and in such a creative field, I'd like to think we are always looking for new ways to innovative, as well as listening to the needs of the artists.

MCL: How often do you have events?

CECE: Right now we plan one medium to large event a year, however we are working to have more smaller events and workshops throughout the year that touch the needs of the community all while bringing an artistic presence.

MCL: What are you looking for when you have events?

CECE: We are always looking for new and unknown talent. While we want to welcome anyone who is serious and looking for just an opportunity to be seen and heard, there is just something special about introducing talent that no one or very few people have ever heard about. Many of the people who have already worked with us have mentioned that we were their first event and many of them have not only gone on to do more exciting things, but also collaborate with those they met while at a StreetPoetz.com event.

MCL: Talk about the last event at The Smith Theatre.

CECE: This event was a bit different in that it was a networking mixer. Our goal was not only to put on a great show, but to also show people the importance of networking and staying prepared. One of the things we taught people how to do as soon as they stepped in the door was to make their own business card holders!

I think this event was extremely special because we had such a variety of not only artistic mediums and genres, but also ages. We had two adolescent vocalists, both high school students who just blew everyone away and who did so in a way that was appropriate to their ages. Two of our poets, who drove in from Jamestown, did a duet adding sign language to their piece. We also had some published Authors and Poets which was amazing considering there are a lot of people who are looking to be published. There were an array of visual artists who were all completely different from one another as well as many different genres of dance and music. Our goal is to make sure there is something for everyone!

MCL: StreetPoetz.com has a directory. What is the benefit of being a part of that directory?

CECE: Yes, as I mentioned we have a free directory on our website. In the old days we had the yellow pages, but now, artists need one central place to list themselves. Many people outside of the arts aren't always aware of just how expensive it is not only to BE an artist, but to also be educated as one. So our mission is to help artists find work. We are asked for referrals on a weekly basis and have successfully referred dozens and dozens of poets, dancers, visual artists, muralists, face painters, visual artists, and even instructors to companies and organizations needing these talents. As we continue to grow, we encourage artists to take advantage of being listed so they can be found by those who wouldn't ordinarily know of their talents. In addition, those who provide services to artists can be listed as well, something that is equally important to someone wishing to hire someone who understands not only smaller budgets, but also the arts as a whole. Some examples would be (but are certainly not limited to): Caterers, Venue Owners, Videographers, Event Planners, Suppliers, Marketing Consultants, etc... We want this to be a resource for all in need!

MCL: Finally, promote yourself. What's going on in 2015/2016 for you?

CECE: As we close out the 2015 year, we are getting ready to participate in a local Adopt a family program. Our goal is to encourage those within our network to donate to our assigned family in need so that can help to make their holiday special.

In 2016, we have some ideas brewing that are still in the planning phases, but things we are extremely excited about! Right now, we are looking to expand our team of volunteer bloggers as well as Interns. We are always looking to help those who need not only experience but also those who want to learn about blogging, editing, marketing, branding, and web development and more!

StreetPoetz.com are always looking for Sponsors, Volunteers, Bloggers and Stage Talent!

For more information:

https://streetpoetz.com/

https://www.facebook.com/StreetPoetz/

https://twitter.com/streetpoetz

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