We had the good fortune of connecting with Reagan Watkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Reagan, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I am from the great city of Philadelphia. Philly is rich in history, not only when it comes to the founding of America but also in arts and culture. Growing up, I admired the beautiful murals lining the Frankford Avenue only visible from the overhead train I caught home to my grandma’s house every day. I spent my free time reading and writing more than I did playing with my dolls. By the time I reached high school, I was fully immersed in the world of words. The high school I attended is famous for their Hollywood status alumni who have sought artistic careers after graduation. These alum inspired me to pursue art as well. I began performing my poetry in 10th grade. I began attending open mics in the city meeting and learning more about Philly writers. I published my first book in 2020, which contain poems I wrote from the age of 16 to 19. To date, I have two published poetry collections, both including references to my city and my pride for it. I am in the works of designing two murals with the Upper Darby Mural Arts Program, a full circle dream of mine.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have a lyric from one of my poems tattooed on my back: “she wraps herself/ around my mind,/ around my spine…” This poem is about my relationship with poetry. It feels like poems flow through me just as my blood flows through my veins. I write poems about my heart, my emotions, and my mind. I don’t try to complicate my thoughts with lengthy metaphors. The road to being a published author was not easy. There were times where it felt as though I was the only fan of my poetry. It was hard to get a consistent audience in person and on social media. Now I am graced by messages from people I have never met that feel connected and seen through my work. A few years ago, I was excited to be included in any performance opportunity.
Two important lessons I have learned along the way are that everything is not what it may seem on social media and that every opportunity is a good opportunity. Your art is your brand and you should be wary of who and what you associate it with.
I want the world to know that I believe in equality and inclusivity when it comes to sharing art. My poems feature themes of Black pride, same-sex love, and mental illness. I established Sugar Poems in 2020, a writing business that offers full support publishing services, creative writing and literacy workshops, and event planning services. At Sugar Poems, our vision is to forge meaningful connections with the world through the power of creative expression. We strive to not only elevate our own work but also empower and uplift others in their writing endeavors. Together, we believe in the transformative power of words to create understanding, empathy, and positive change.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take my friend to see some museums. Museum trips are more fun than boring to me. Atlanta is known for their food. I have been wanting to try Escobar. The dishes and drinks look amazing. Late night, I would want to check out the nightlife and clubs like The Bugaloo. The most exciting people to hang out with are the residents who have lived there for a long time. They always know all of the best spots to visit and things to do. When I go on a trip, I like to eat things that the area is known for and sightsee. I would love to see some of the historical sites in Atlanta.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to shoutout my mom. She has never given up on me. My mom has supported me in any and every way that she can. Most recently, she served as a listening ear and a helping hand this past October when I was planning the release of my book ‘Sweet & Sour Dreams: A Ride Through My Mind.’ She flew from Atlanta to Philly to help me prepare for the event as well be there as a supportive attendee. It meant so much to me for her to be there. My second poetry collection is dedicated to her.
Website: www.sugarpoems.com
Instagram: @sugar.poems
Facebook: Sugar Poems
Image Credits
Bre Scott Briana Zepp