Artist presents power of words

By Hilliary Martino, On-Line Forty-Niner

Wednesday, October 21, 1998

Vibrant soul, creativity and streetwise sensibility were the hallmarks of Jackie Joice's spoken-word performance Thursday on the fifth floor of the University Library.

Joice's performance was part of "Objects in the mirror may appear ... ," a monthly series that showcases accomplished women writers.

A published poet, local activist and graduate of Cal State Long Beach, Joice said she uses poetry and the spoken word to promote and influence the many ways people look at society.

"I feel it is important to inform the community in every way, shape or form," Joice said. "Some individuals inform the public on issues through theater, music and visual art. I chose performance poetry."

The words and imagery Joice used - sketching her street-conscious outlook on contemporary social issues - seemed to captivate the audience immensely.

The piece, "I am the street poet," showed Joice's dynamic and rhythmic abilities while portraying a street-smart character well aware of his or her surroundings, and correspondingly it seemed, the poet's own sense of the world around her.

When Joice finished a presentation, she often asked the audience of writers and students to comment and discuss her work.

"I think my poetry is important because some people have absolutely no idea what is going on in the community or the world," Joice said. "If I successfully reach just one person through my work, then I have made a difference."

The series is sponsored by the Women's Resource Center and the Women's Commission of the Associated Students Inc.

For more information on poet Jackie Joice and the spoken words series, one may contact the WRC at (562) 985-8576.