Lyrical Sanctuary: Be inspired. Speak your mind. Leave an impression.

Lyrical Sanctuary is UWM’s monthly open mic night, featuring a standout spoken word artist, live music and art, and YOU! It is a campus tradition that brings students and community members together to share their passion for poetry and creative self-expression. Prior to each performance, the monthly featured artist leads a creative writing workshop open to anyone willing to put their pen to the page.  

Experience The Power of Lyrical Sanctuary:

Lyrical Sanctuary Features of Fall 2023

SEPTEMBER

Nakara Forjé

Nakara Forjé is a lyricist, curator and facilitator from the Twin Cities who shares her life experiences through cleverly formulated, relatable narratives. Her transparency, authenticity and soulful sound sets her apart from her peers. As the co-founder of SWAGG LLC, she aims to cultivate healing and creativity in Black women and girls through her art in the forms of music, events and workshops. Community work is equally important as her music offerings. She’s also the Vice President of the Rooted Society collective. Her latest release is the #lovehangover2 album, available on all platforms. She’s currently working on #lovehangover3 in addition to the “Healed Hoochie” movement. Follow her journey on Instagram @nakaraforje

Nakara Forjé’s Writing Workshop:

“Music is my Love Language” explores music as a tool to understand how we love and who we are. Using music (mine and others), writing lyrics and candid community dialogue, participants walk away empowered and with an enlightened perspective on themselves and how they show up based on the music that moves them.

OCTOBER

Lea V

Born and raised on the north side of Milwaukee, Lea V started her mission with words at six years old. Sharing sacred moments through storytelling with her mother ignited a transformative tool of passion, power, and purposeful poetry. Lea V holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work from UWM, recognizing the importance of words and effective communication to address community social climates. Now preparing to pursuit her licensure as a therapist, she understands poetry’s role in the healing experience. In 2018, Lea self-published her first book “No Edits,” showcasing raw and authentic storytelling about healing. Follow her impactful journey of leadership everywhere @LeaVHortman

Lea V’s Writing Workshop:

Welcome to the Mirror Talk workshop, a transformative creative writing session where we delve into the way we communicate with ourselves and sharpen the areas we wish to heal and communicate better. In this safe and nurturing space, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

NOVEMBER

Daniel French

Daniel French, MFA (Mohawk, Chicano) is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, poet & MC from LA who lives for sweets & stories. His trilingual poetry & music is featured in award-winning shows like Kamau Bell’s United Shades of America, Party of Five (2020), Powerlands, Telemundo telenovela Bajo El Mismo Cielo, & even the Nobel Prize Summit. He’s rocked mics from Bonnaroo to the Hollywood Bowl & back with acts like Ibeyi, the Halluci Nation, the Gypsy Kings, & the LA Philharmonic. Building on his band Las Cafeteras’ taste for blending old & new, French continues to experiment; blending acoustic & traditional sounds with modern frequencies. Follow his journey on Instagram @FrenchisMexican

Daniel French’s Writing Workshop:

Til Lions Write Scripts: Unleashing the Power of Your Story: Reclaim your story, unleash your power! Through fun and creative exercise you will reflect on your life’s journey, and write your story! This workshop is a creative space to dream, hone your voice, and chart your path forward in life.

DECEMBER

Philly Anderson

A native of Milwaukee, Philly Anderson holds the soul of 90s era of hip-hop. He is a lyricist and producer that channels his stories through music. Philly’s music is heavily influenced by artists like Ghostface Killah, the Alchemist, and the late great J-Dilla and MF Doom. Most recently, Philly took 3rd place in the Big Beat MKE 2023, Milwaukee’s beat battle tournament. He quickly rolls off other producers on his first year being an up-and-coming producer himself, though he has been a veteran of production for two decades. Philly has a single out right now called, “Winter’s Rage” that can be streamed on both Spotify and Apple Music. Follow Philly’s journey on Instagram @Yoshiidfk414

Philly Anderson’s Writing Workshop:

“Words Paints Pictures” is something you would love to share if you’re an artist. It could be RnB or Hip Hop but the words add weight. Everything has a soul, the sweet spot or whatever you want to call it. It’s the delivery of the right words that matches the background of your art.

For more information about all Lyrical Sanctuary events contact:
John Contreras
Sociocultural Programming Manager
(414) 251-6527
sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

University of Wisconsin-MilwaukeeStudent Involvement

Lyrical Sanctuary