Ursula Rucker

Ursula will create of an epic poem about New Orleans' history, culture, uniqueness and diversity, its people, and its post-Katrina identity. Ursula will partner with friend and photojournalist Clarence Williams to create a book of the poem that includes his photography of the city. The book will serve to celebrate, honor, and mourn what was once was, while promoting humanity over government bureaucracy.

Ursula is an internationally acclaimed poet, mother of four boys, mentor and role model. In her sixteen-year career, she has released four solo albums and worked on over thirty collaborations with music producers from across the globe. She is committed to using her poetry as a vehicle of protest and activism. Ursula's mission and calling is to heal herself, the planet, and its people through her art. Her poetry tells the stories of struggle, love, womanhood, peace, anger, injustice, and spirituality. As an artist who has performed in many continents, countries, classrooms and community centers, Ursula sees herself as an ambassador of culture, socio-political issues, truth and love. Based on her personal experience and the response of countless fans and audiences, Ursula believes that art and poetry are catalysts for change. While she sees the world as her community, she pays particular attention to the world of women, indigenous/diasporan people, and sufferers of injustice.