10 Questions with Mabel Howard
Mabel Howard
-written by Nat Richmond
Clever. Intuitive. Thoughtful. These are just a few of the adjectives that come to mind when Mabel Howard speaks to you. In the Literary world, it's more than refreshing to come across someone who is so passionate about the revitalization of Poetry, or what Miss Mabeline will tell you, Word Art. It's inspiring to know that this arena may see it's own version of the Harlem Renaissance, where those of us who are undercover lyrical expressionists may have an advocate to fight on our behalf to keep the genre alive. But, it's safe to say that Mabel Howard is doing even more than that. The 2021 recipient of Erie Arts & Culture's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award has her sights set on taking the Erie Spoken Word scene to the global stage through tireless marketing and promotion of local writers, insuring that they have a space to always be themselves...even if they've never considered performing their works in front of audiences. Howard uses her own pen to dive deep into the waters of her own emotions, and dares peers to do the same through her own workshops and open mics. There's nothing superficial about her willpower, and she'll let you know in a heartbeat that her mission is near and dear to her own heart, which is quite apparent to witness through her consistency, dedication, and organization. I had the pleasure of chatting with Howard about her goals, and what her journey has consisted of up until this point. She's puts her all into her works and her social work, and that's worth revering and celebrating.
What originally inspired you to begin writing? Who were your biggest influencers?
I have always been a writer. What makes me unique is my gift of being a visionary who is able to develop and implement plans that have successful outcomes. My biggest influencers include Maya Angelo, Rumi, Common, and Keith Moses.
The Spoken-Word arena in Erie has gained traction in the last few years, how do you feel you’ve contributed to it’s gaining in popularity?
I am a leader who is personally vested in building the Word Art Community. A master marketer who understands the importance of image and promotion. I use my skill set to make the art of word more attractive to a diverse audience of people that will one day describe themselves as Word Artists.
What are a few of your goals for what you hope to bring to the city’s literary world?
My goals for the city’s literary world are quite simple: Build the Word Art community and then start a Word Art academy that will one day be nationally recognized.
Name a book that has had a major impact on you.
The Seven Spiritual Laws Of Success by Deepak Chopra
Define Word Art, and what is it’s important in the overall Art world.
Word Art can be described as the end product of any artist who uses words to create their works. Ex. Poet, Writer, Spoken Word Artist, Singer, Songwriter, Rapper, Lyricist, Screenwriter, etc. Imagine a world without the production of any of the listed sectors above. That’s the impact of WORD ART to the overall Art world.
What empowers you on stage?
Knowing that my words can heal, inspire, comfort, and or touch the hearts of the active listeners in the audience.
Artistically, what gets your creative wheels turning?
I am innovative by nature and always creating. A self driven go getter who makes things happen.
How would you describe Erie’s Art scene to someone who isn’t from here? What’s the heartbeat of the city?
I would describe Erie‘s Art scene to someone who isn’t from here as a vibrant and welcoming place to get involved. Arts and Culture are the heartbeat of our city.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years I see myself building communities through WORD ART ACADEMIES.
Any final thoughts?
Believe In Yourself & Keep Writing Friends.
