http://www.facebook.com/LakeythePoet
Though his real name is Joshua he generally answers to Wero or Lakey, the color of his skin or a town he left. San Anto's West Side led him to slam poetry (2006) and activism (2010). PuroSlam made those two interests flourish. Earning a spot on PuroSlam's team of four poets sent to represent SA at the National Poetry Slam in 2009 (West Palm Beach, FL.), 2010 (St. Paul, MN.), and 2011 (Boston, MA.) allowed Lakey to perform in different states and be featured throughout San Antonio, Laredo, and a group feature in Austin.
Upon returning from the 2010 NPS a discussion arose about the help and support PuroSlam had received from the city over the past few years. In the end it was decided PuroSlam needed to give back, and with that Lakey assumed Puro Slam Working created. A goal of 1,000 hours was set for the first year and action was taken immediately as they came together to exceed the goal by 66 hours! A goal of 1,500 has been set here in the second year and they are on pace to blow it out of the water.
Lakey says "PSW is only a small part of a much larger goal that speaks a message of the power of community through volunteerism." Lakey's greatest writing and activism inspiration is drawn from the words and actions of "active" poets like Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, Gandhi and Jesus. Born to a family dealt a hard hand lead to witnessing tragedy, moving like a pulsating molasses-textured lava. Recognizing he wouldn't have a pulse if it were not for the unconditional love and volunteering spirit of people strangely placed in his path to encourage his existence, he lives to allow the gift of possibility for all.
In times that words escape, he does what comes most natural: Pen still in hand, he moves it along the paper as if the ink is in control. Logical thought takes a back seat until the picture starts to speak to him. He relates drawing to life and says there is only so much room (time) to draw a conclusion (destiny) and once you choose, though you have the option to change your perspective, there is nothing that you can erase. He finds joy in the pursuit of lost meaning and finds it fitting he lives in a city named after the Patron Saint of Lost Items. After a "reality" is acknowledged the destiny is pursued. He prefers to use only black ink because it allows more perspectives to the engaged viewer. Colors make a single truth more vibrant by overtaking possibility and denoting a less expansive reality. That being said, Lakey has most recently seen working on a few 18x24 in pieces bursting with bright color that will take well over 100 hours to complete.
Through volunteerism, slam poetry, and pen drawing Lakey has received publicity from The Current, Backbeat, Scene in S.A., San Antonio Express, and GoodJobTexas radio. He has shown art in Border Linea and is hanging his work in downtown bars and clubs as he gets them framed. Originals can be purchased by contacting him at unpoetry87@yahoo.com. He is also available for performing at poetry events or to discuss volunteer/donation options through Puro Slam Working. Do not hesitate to e-mail or message with any questions or comments and have a grand day!
