Channel Title: Morgan Harper Nichols Channel Description: Morgan Harper Nichols is a poet, artist, and teacher <video> Meet the Artist | Morgan Harper Nichols | Art as Communication | Black Autistic Woman Artist Description: Meet the Artist: This video has been in the works for over 5 years: In 2017, I was stressed out about not having a steady income, and I had just been dismissed by my doctor after asking for a referral to see an autism specialist. 4 years later, at the age of 31, I was diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder, but in the meantime, I began practicing to work out what I was struggling with through art and began creating more than ever. In short, making art allowed me to breathe and communicate, and it continues to do so. It assisted me in finding a way to communicate after years of masking and failing to communicate as others did. This is a video about my process of learning to see "Art as Communication." I make art in a variety of ways, not just because I'm creative, but because I believe that art can be one of many legitimate ways to communicate, tell stories, share ideas, and make connections between people. — I began working on this video to have something for a new website for my art prints that I'm launching soon, and I'm very proud of it! This video was edited by me and includes footage from me, as well as clips from Thomas Ventura and Erin Morgan Taylor. I finally put these clips together into a video. Zac Rosen recommended "Celestial Walkers" by Lama House . Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this journey. Thank you very much! Morgan </video> <video> 10 Minute Podcast: For when it's hard to communicate you're feeling Description: What if the act of making art is to create a non-linear sheet of music of the heart? As someone with a background in music and art, I've always felt like my paintings were musical. For instance, the key of D feels blue and the key of G feels green, and so on. I struggled with sheet music when I was a kid learning to play piano. So, despite numerous attempts to learn classical music notation, I didn’t do well learning sheet music and didn’t return to it until years later. Eventually, I was able to fill in some music theory gaps in college that would help me in being a professional musician; however, I still didn’t understand sheet music. However, one day, when I randomly decided to start reading about the history of notating and visualizing music and different other approaches from around the world, I was deeply inspired by this idea of using notes to "visualize" music even though I didn't fully understand it. It helped me find words to describe the ways I had been visualizing music through my art. As I look at a piece of sheet music I don't know how to read and put it next to abstract art in particular, I'm increasingly inclined to see the art piece as a form of non-linear sheet music of the heart, as each dot, scribble, and brushstroke conveys an emotion I'm seeking to "sing."  Since music is defined differently in different parts of the world, I'm becoming more curious about what other types of "sheet music" are out there. And what other music might emerge as a result of this? I'm inspired by sheet music to think about how describing what we're thinking might look like music sometimes, and other times, it might look like scribbling dots on a page or humming to a loosely-structured tune. Of course, we have words for emotions and ways of talking about them, but looking at the history of sheet music has helped me consider the ways in which I'm allowed to try to explore other ways of communicating what's in my heart, and one of the ways I can do that is through art. __ Think about the way you communicate. Do you think it could be possible for art or music to be used to communicate something you’re feeling or experiencing? </video> <video> 5 Minute Podcast - For when you feel discouraged while waiting Description: Looking down into an unlit candle, I don’t doubt the candlewick’s ability to light a flame. Unless the wick has completely sunk into the wax, I believe it will contribute to the formation of fire at the appropriate time. This is in contrast to my tendency to be skeptical of things that haven't yet ignited. Of course, there are times in life when opportunities "slip" down like a candlewick into wax to the point of no return, but then there are times when I lose patience with a lack of results, answers, or clarity, when there might be something more… But unlit candlewick reminds me that even though sometimes we have to say "goodbye" to a candle before we're ready, that doesn't mean there won't be other candles that bring forth fire when the time is right. When the clock is ticking and I'm focused on time, this is difficult work, but the more I learn about candles and all of the variables a candlemaker must consider when selecting the right wick—the diameter of the container that will hold it, the type of wax used, how it had to be tested, and so many other factors—it becomes clear that there are many steps to this process, and the same is true of the unlit candles in my life. What I'm learning from this is that I want to be able to look at something that isn't lit and not doubt its ability to light at the right time. Even if I have to say goodbye to a candle that can no longer be lit, I want to grieve that, and in time, believe there will be other opportunities to fill this room with light in the future. So, the next time you look down at a candle and see the wick, I hope you can feel confident that it will light when the time is right. Of course, not always. However, something may appear to have ended when it is simply unlit. You're free to consider the possibility that, among all the things you've said "goodbye" to, other things might still ignite in their time. Holding that tension is hard, but I just hope you can remember the possibility of a flame that might be. </video> <video> Podcast: When you feel like you don't have enough time Description: Here’s something I’ve learned from this photo of my stove: I am free to give myself time and space to be in process. I’m allowed to see the act of cooking as a worthy endeavor even before the meal is ready for the plate. In it’s own way, this process is a work of art. There are many definitions of art, but many view it as an endeavor that reflects experiences, emotions, and ideas, among other things. There’s a tendency, however, to think of art only as a final “thing,” but what if there was room to see the process of cooking, making, and creating as an endeavor that was a form of art on its own? An endeavor is “an attempt to achieve a goal” (Oxford Languages). Art is an endeavor.Cooking is an endeavor.Living is an endeavor. And perhaps, we can see the attempts we’re making as valid…even before they’re “finished” in the form of a meal or a canvas. Maybe we can see our lives as art before they’re finished, too. And here’s the thing: if you spend enough time pursuing an endeavor as a work of art, stirring and experimenting with a process-as-art such as “cooking,” giving everything adequate time to marinate, sear, and caramelize, eventually someone might find you cooking and began to inquire: “What are you cooking?! It smells amazing! Can I taste it?” And even if you’re in the zone, still stirring all your ingredients in different pots at different temperatures, you are free to say, “Sure!” and let them try it. The significance of this other person in my life as a writer and artist is that I see the other person complimenting my “cooking” as the editing and publishing process, the product creation process, etc.  And when that happens, I am grateful! I am hopeful that the editor, interviewer, or art director will enjoy what they’ve tasted and experienced and share it with others. But at the same time, them tasting my “dish” doesn’t mean I have to stop being “in process.” And as I continue to engage with my process, even after having made some “meal,” I’m not wasting time by returning to that process again and again…even if I don’t know what that next “meal” will be. Being in the process is something we can spend a lifetime making space for. You’re not “wasting time” …if you’re not always focused on a final product with everything.…by meandering from one book to the next, even if you don’t finish the previous book.…by being in your 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond and not having a “game plan” like your peers. Instead, you’re allowing yourself to keep a few pots going, trying new things. You’re allowing yourself to pick up the cooking utensils of life and use the available ingredients to be present in the process. Even if the ingredients you have are just conversations with the people you live with, a much-needed nap, or a book that is helping you grow, your process is a meaningful endeavor worth investing in and, in its own way, a work of art. Others may not experience it that way, but the thing is: you can. You are allowed to peer down at the ensemble of pots and pans on the stove and let the aromatic, auditory, or visual experience of the process speak to you. As you practice being present in this way, let your senses confirm what your heart already knows: slowly but surely, you are learning to come alive to what you are experiencing and creating in this life, and that is an art form in and of itself. — Morgan Harper Nichols </video> <video> How can you take the pressure off yourself? | Part 1 of 3: Poem and Prompt Description: This video is Part 1 of a 3-part mini-series on preparing for the journey ahead. Each part of the series focuses on one question. Today's question is: "How can you take the pressure off yourself?" - Feel free to journal about this on think about it throughout the day! - This series is inspired by my latest book "You Are Only Just Beginning" which comes out on Valentines Day, February 14. Click here to pre-order on my website, Garden24! https://garden24.co/products/pre-order-your-are-only-just-beginning-morgan-harper-nichols Click here to pre-order at other retailers: http://bit.ly/3hqDMsG </video> <video> 4 Minute Podcast - A Package of Seeds - Day 1 of 30: The Poetry of [Seemingly] Ordinary Things Description: Perhaps, one particularly fascinating thing about packages of seeds is not just the fact that they each contain individual seeds all packaged according to their collective commonalities that might bloom in their own way, but also, how, despite their different purposes and care needs and appearances, there is a possibility that these different packages can be carefully opened in an unhurried way, and can be planted to grow together. And yet, what could be even more fascinating are the ways in which these seeds, not-yet-bloomed, are often perceived as a beginning of what they could be and nothing more. But when we look closer at the seeds of flowers in particular, we are able to imagine that there is a possibility that someday they might become cosmos or marigold or some mix of flowers waiting to be revealed. And all of this imagining of how seeds can grow can happen long before they actually grow. When they are sitting on the kitchen counter next to a keychain filled with keys and stacks of unopened envelopes, on some cold, Thursday morning, right there, long before they even reach the soil, there is this idea that is very much alive that this seed could be so much more. Perhaps, for some of these seeds, despite having been excitedly picked up in a whim of hopefulness, upon further research, one might recognize that these seeds are best sown in future seasons. In that moment, it might become clear that despite the sense of hopefulness that led to bringing these seeds home, there will be further waiting than anticipated. But at the same time, even in the waiting, the seeds will have never ceased to be what they are: seeds that still hold the possibility of what could be. And yes, in that moment, the idea of 'possibility' might at times become too burdensome of a word, thinking about all these different seeds you have and how much you want them all to bloom together at the same time. And now , some will have to wait, and some may need more care than others, and some might need more sunlight than you originally realized. However, somehow who they are and who they might be still remains, no matter the time it takes for them to make it to the soil, to be watered, and to grow. - MHN </video> <video> Podcast: When You're Comparing Your Pace To Others - Lessons from Hummingbirds (At Rest) Description: A podcast by Morgan Harper Nichols </video> <video> room to the breathe (calming animation + poem) Description: as you move through the day, may you know it's okay to create a little space, to let this day be what it needs to be. and however you can, create room to simply breathe. for you have already been through so much, and to simply breathe through this moment is more than enough. inhale, exhale, and pace yourself through the landscape of the day, gathering what you need as you go. grace, gratitude, space, hope, joy, love, rest, room to feel what you need to feel, room to grieve, room to embrace gentleness, slowness, room to learn what it means to be free, room to breathe, room to breathe. in your stillness, in your motion, in your silence, in your song… breathe. </video> <video> 9 Minute Podcast - Living Unframed Description: When I feel boxed in, I think of this door with three rows of windows side by side. From what I've seen, it's called a "window grille."  I can't help but see many things here: A social media profile with images and videos side-by-side. A wall of photographs in square frames. A wall calendar with many entries in little squares. Even a yearbook with square student photos lined up side by side. These things are different, but they have this in common: As much as they reveal, they only say so much: A full social media feed can tell a lot about life, but for many things, a 10-minute video would only scratch the surface. A grid of photos (on your phone or in real life) are just the moments someone decided to capture. A full calendar reveals much about life, but it doesn't tell you everything. An old yearbook photo might lead to a thousand words, but still, leave out 10,000 other words about everything that happened your senior year. I see these "boxes" everywhere. Even when sending a text, that narrow horizontal window where you type sometimes makes me feel like what I need to say must take up as little space as possible. I'm not saying texts must be 100 words or even a sentence. I'm not suggesting gridless windows and doors. Frames and brevity are useful. We often need to "edit the plate." Save time, and value others' time, and be expedient when necessary. But in our fast-paced world, windows keep closing faster and faster. So I'm learning to break out of some boxes: I'm fine if people keep scrolling and leave because I didn't get to the point fast enough –– There are billions of other posts out there that will grab their attention better than I can. I'll always respect others' time. And also, I can't control all those variables. I can't be put in a box of 60 seconds for everything, just like I can't be put in a box about what "30s" should look like. And I want the same for my 40s, 50s, and so on. Windows, frames, boxes, squares, and rectangles may have their place, and also, when you feel stuck, I hope you find ways to discover how: there's more out there. Putting something in a frame might just always have its place in our world, and, so will finding ways to live unframed. - Morgan Harper Nichols </video> <video> Kaleidoscope Thoughts - #art #calming #podcast #poetry #artistic #inspiration Description: </video> <video> 15 Minute Podcast: For when you're struggling to see the bigger picture Description: May every brushstroke you paint with your life play a small, yet meaningful part in exploring how the process of painting itself is its own work of art. For the one who is struggling with focusing on a larger picture: One of the most common questions I am asked is why and how I share my work every day. I am also asked some variation of this: Why don't I work on something and post it weekly? Or monthly? The short answer is that I tried it, but it didn't work for me. Breaking down what I'm doing into smaller pieces feels more natural to as a result of my particular way of being autistic/having ADHD. However, this can be difficult, because I fear bothering people with my work, and I've considered sharing less many times because I don't want to "clog" people's feeds or take up too much of their space I get very insecure about sharing in this way even though it feels natural to me. However, there has been an image that has helped me keep going: a paintbrush. And here's how that image became important to me: I came across a quote by the African American sculptor Augusta Savage that struck a chord with me one day while researching her: She said, "I have created nothing really beautiful, really lasting, but if I can inspire one of these youngsters to develop the talent I know they possess, then my monument will be in their work." This post holds a significant amount of power for me because it highlights the unfortunate fact that despite being the only black woman commissioned by the World Fair, Augusta Savage's work was destroyed after the fair in 1939. This quote made me realize that sharing my work in small pieces every day can help others learn, even if it's just learning how to be present or taking a deep breath for a few seconds. So even though I don't currently have any students, I see my daily work as something that can help others learn in their own unique way. I may not be as skilled as Savage in working with clay, plaster, or marble, or as “focused” as many others in making weekly or monthly works, but I do use my own tools, such as a paintbrush, it has become a symbolic reminder of the process and a reminder of how I can return to it every day in my own way and some times, those little things become books and courses and so much more! But most days, it’s just moving along from one little piece to the next in a non-linear way that I am learning to embrace without feeling embarrassed or ashamed of it. I definitely challenge myself to make larger works like books, and at the same time, the small daily sharing helps me stay with the process. Each piece of my work is like a brushstroke on a larger canvas that will not be finished until the end of my life. Augusta Savage's words have taught me that letting the work live beyond me in the way it wants to is what matters. And if it ends up being broken up into a million tiny pieces I am more than okay with that. </video> <video> What do you want community to look like from now on? | Part 2 of 3: Poem and Prompt Description: This video is Part 2 of a 3-part mini-series on preparing for the journey ahead. Each part of the series focuses on one question. Today's question is: “What do you want community to look like from now on?” - Feel free to journal about this on think about it throughout the day! - This series is inspired by my latest book "You Are Only Just Beginning" which comes out on Valentines Day, February 14. Click here to pre-order on my website, Garden24! https://garden24.co/products/pre-order-your-are-only-just-beginning-morgan-harper-nichols Click here to pre-order at other retailers: http://bit.ly/3hqDMsG </video> <video> 8 Minute Podcast: For when you feel rushed Description: Morgan Harper Nichols is an autistic artist and poet. _ You are free to be present to your life without always worrying about time. _ If you had a box of 100 crayons in front of you right now, how would you color time? This is something I think about when I sit down to create a piece that involves clock imagery. For me, even the smallest subversion of not "finishing" the clock I am drawing and then, in many cases, creating a whole other world around it is a way of creating space to think about time in a different way. Of course, I am not the first artist to make a piece involving clocks or time imagery, but I find it important to return to this practice of drawing "little" things like clocks, even if someone else has already "done it" before. I return to images like the clock not just to make a pretty picture but to imagine "time" differently, even if it's just for a few moments. Clocks - especially as we know them today - are not ancient. Our current ways of keeping up with time may help with modern-day logistics, but these current ways can only explain so much. Now, one might think, "Well, this is a fun little creative exercise, but in real life, things are time-sensitive, and we don't have to think about all of this..." To which I say this: "When you're moving through your day, you don't have to actively think about the meal you ate or every hour of sleep you got in order for it to make a difference that you got good rest and ate a fulfilling meal. The same could be true of an art practice...it's an opportunity to sit and think about something you don't normally think about that might end up leading you to something deeper you didn't even realize you needed to think about." Even in our digitized world, the analog clock on the wall remains a strong image, and perhaps what we can learn from this image is that sometimes there is room to see it as a "prompt" - something to work with, work around, something to find our way through, asking, "Where in my life can I forget about time?" I cannot tell you when or where you will have to shift your focus to "time," but I can tell you that there is still room to consider for yourself the ways in which you might "color" it differently...or forget about time altogether. - MHN </video> <video> How can you build in a pause? | Part 3 of 3: Poem and Prompt Description: This video is Part 3 of a 3-part mini-series on preparing for the journey ahead. Each part of the series focuses on one question. Today's question is: “How can you build in a pause?” - Feel free to journal about this on think about it throughout the day! - This series is inspired by my latest book "You Are Only Just Beginning" which comes out on Valentines Day, February 14. Click here to pre-order on my website, Garden24! https://garden24.co/products/pre-order-your-are-only-just-beginning-morgan-harper-nichols Click here to pre-order at other retailers: http://bit.ly/3hqDMsG </video> <video> to catch a poem 💙animation and video #artistic #calming - Song: Found by Martin Gauffin Description: </video>

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Morgan Harper Nichols is a poet, artist, and teacher

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