Meet Victoria Allen: Poet | Creative Director | Multimedia Artist | Event Planner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Victoria Allen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Victoria, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
The further I get in my career, the more I learn the importance of a work-life balance. Majority of the time I’m working on multiple creative projects simultaneously along with working a full-time job. Thankfully since college I learned time management and carried that into my young adulthood. Currently I work on writing my poetry book early in the morning along with creating social media graphics. Then I usually like to unwind by painting or sketching at night after work. I also showcase some of my artwork to my colleagues so they respect my time when I’m working on outside projects during my lunchbreak or when it’s slow at work. I’m still learning how to take my personal projects to the next step while not burning myself out. Balance can be a daunting goal in most aspects of life but I give myself grace when I fall short of it. 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I consider myself a multimedia artist and a poet. While growing up poetry was always a form of therapy and self-care, which continued into spoken word pieces that I share with audiences. I believe poetry has the ability to create conversation within our community as well as an introspection within your self. On the flip side poetry was a gateway into speaking my thoughts more, it allows me to take the time to understand how I’m feeling and then proceed to speak on the matter. My other art forms include painting, mix medium collages, photography and creative directing. Each art form is special to my growth into young adulthood and presents ways for me to collaborate with other creatives especially with photography and creative directing. My overall goal is to be a multifaceted artist and for my art to resonate with those that need it at that moment.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Our day would start off with tea and pastries at one of my favorite black owned tea shops Just Add Honey on the Beltline. We would then proceed to take pictures while walking the trail and stop by Krog Street Market so we can each select our favorite lunch option. Afterwards we do a short museum hop and visit places like Zucot Gallery, MOCA GA and the High Museum. We could unwind that evening and check out Apache Café for a night full of vibes or if it’s a Monday we would check out Monday Night Garage.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m thankful to have so many friends and loved ones that support my ambitions and art. I want to thank my go-to photographers Amos Hudson, Dierra Font, John Dierre and Samantha Livingston for always helping me execute a vision. Also I want to shout out Taylor Augusta for her amazing illustrations in my upcoming poetry book Thoughts of a Mustard Seed. Lastly I want to thank Sciler Williams and Darren Howard for their edits of my book and constant support through the writing process.

Website: https://vallenenvisage.wixsite.com/vpallen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoria.p.allen/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-allen-1995va/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuXUsoIe-fMsfjI7DMRABFw?view_as=subscriber