Describe your contribution/work in the Appalachian region.
Born and raised in eastern KY. I graduated from Alice Lloyd College in 2007. While there, I won the Billie and Curtis Owens award for fiction. Currently I produce articles for “Silly Linguistics” magazine, where I sometimes discuss the unique Kentucky accent. I also paint and I plan to self publish a career memoir on caregiving/behavioral health. Once COVID is over, I’d love to be involved in community art projects and local murals.
What is your perception of Appalachia?
-Appalachia is a sleeping giant. An educated, compassionate, and loving one. It’s disgraceful that we are often forgotten and ghosted. I long for some of the same opportunities as larger cities.
Is change needed internally within Appalachia regarding our culture’s self-perception?
-Desperately! It’s like telling a friend, “You deserve better!” We don’t have to accept the “Kool aid moustache-rank 50th in everything” script that’s been written for us by others.
How do we challenge damaging stereotypes of Appalachia?
-I personally love using big words to throw haters off track. I encourage education, empathy, and cool communication. Limit engagement with closed minded strangers- they are committed to misunderstanding you. Your precious time and energy are best used on other meaningful efforts toward the goal of empathy, compassion and solidarity.
How does your region of Appalachia inspire you?
-I have discovered a community of fellow artists! Shot out to “Weird Appalachia”! I have always seen art in the mundane. I live in a forest and nature plays a big role in my artwork. After living away for nearly a decade, I see even more opportunity to colorize and make this community vibrant. I am ,surprisingly, not a country music fan- but locals like Chris Stapleton and Tyler Childers have changed that for me. For anyone doubting, look up Chris’ SNL Performance of “Midnight Train to Memphis”. Tyler will hook you with “Nose on the Grindstone” and his recent statement on social issues will have you applauding.
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