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It feels as though writing is a fading art. Not in the sense that it’s not occurring, but it isn’t highlighted in the same ways and with the same intensity as other forms of creativity. Even though events for spoken writing do exist, they very often go unnoticed with little marketing and exposure to emphasize them. There's an abundance of photography happening around the communities of Detroit whether it be documentation of events and shows, portraits, or elaborate concept shoots. Local music exists in the form of open-mics, bar shows, and dj sets. A great deal of 2D and 3D art exhibits at amateur and regional levels shine a light on the amazing artists around Detroit- not to mention DIA. 

 

Writing, however, seemed to be lacking this platform for performance. Luckily, Just Kids Poetry Collective has instigated just that- a place for the writers of Detroit to showcase their work. The first Sunday of every month, the collective puts on a night of serenity and connectedness where locals of all backgrounds can come read poetry and prose. Truly all is welcome: self-writings or published works, serious or comedic, beginners and those with formal experience. Combined with the tranquil lighting and atmosphere of Polka Dot, these events feel like the warmest, most inviting space. 

 

The idea for the collective comes from a trio of local talent Rio, Rae, and Carter. Rio had suggested in passing to a friend to start a space for writers to read and perform their work. Carter and Rae soon caught wind of the idea and thought it was a great endeavor. Rae had known of many students at Wayne State who were eager to read their work and soon got Polka Dot on board to host the readings. 

 

The beautiful thing about these events is that they have a unique significance to every individual who shows up. Even the minds behind it found meaning in different ways. Rio said it makes her, “incredibly happy to build some sort of community”, and she got to use this opportunity as her own creative outlet which had been absent for a while. For Rae, it is an important space for writers: a place where an audience gives their time to other creatives and allows them a chance to read their work aloud and gain practice in performance. 

 

As a collective and a cultivation of community, there is an ever present notion of freedom and acceptance. During the interview, Carter said something that really stood out. 

“...kids are taught to be, like, good singers versus just, like, singing as part of being a human being.” He went on to say how written and spoken poetry is something we’ve let fade in the human experience. It is so powerful to express yourself, to be as you are and let your art come from a place of authenticity versus trying to be perceived as ‘good’. This is something Just Kids is executing very well. They don’t sell the idea of professionalism or perfection, they encourage real, visceral writing, emphasizing the true human experience. 

 

The group has many ideas and goals of where they want to take the collective. Along with hearing from and getting more engagement in the community, they hope to publish their writers and readers. Plans for a handmade zine with submitted works endowed with illustrations and collages is in the works. You can hear more about their personal inspirations and processes as well as what they have planned in the video. 

 

If you are interested in the work of Just Kids or want to help in their development, they sell pins for just a dollar to go towards publishing and highlighting the writers. Come out to a reading to hear all the talent and insight from those around you. Don’t forget they are held every first Sunday of the month at Polka Dot, and each night is a perfect impression of humanity and creativity.

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We will soon be having a collection of some of the beautiful work of these writers coming out in collaboration with Just Kids.