We had the good fortune of connecting with Gabrielle Marie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gabrielle, what are you inspired by?
I like to think I source inspiration from a vast pool; although, I feel I could summarize it quite simply by saying I am inspired by my experiences and observations. Whether it be the nature or circumstances physically surrounding me, interactions I participate in or observe, insight gained from an intriguing book or self-reflecting on my own accord, I feel compelled to articulate, organize, and make sense of these thoughts and experiences. There is much poetry to be found and written when I take the time to watch, feel, and listen.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My book has been keeping me pretty busy! I couldn’t be more excited for its debut nor more proud of its final form. It took several years to put together, over a decade to write, and a lifetime to dream of. It is finally scheduled to be released to the world on April 22nd!

I believe what sets me apart from others is my desire to be as honest with my writing as being a human will possibly allow and yet still utilizing artistic expression. I want to create an experience that is felt, not just write words to be read.

I’m still at the very beginning of my career as far as publications are concerned, but its taken most of my life to not only develop and practice the skill but also to be comfortable enough to share it with others. Writing and reading can be a very intimate, and often underestimated, exchange. Getting to this point hasn’t been easy, but I overcome inner and outer challenges by facing them head on and trying to represent myself as authentically as I can while doing so. Ultimately, just working toward and hoping for the best.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are: feel your way through your work, creation for the sake of creation is still a worthy cause, and authenticity is the truest form of success for an artist.

I want the world to know that I’m showing up as myself in every piece and that doing so doesn’t have to confine me to a single style or point of view.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’d visit Venice Beach for the novelty and art vendors before going to Redondo Beach for dinner at The Charthouse. DTLA for shopping and lunch at Grand Central Market where I am – for sure – to be snagging a gourmet pb&j from PB&J.LA.
There’s got to be a museum day. We could learn some prehistoric history of California at La Brea Tar Pits and then wander and wonder through some art at The Broad.
Then we’ve got to go out right? We can’t miss the next “Something Dope for the People” event.
Last but not least, hiking through the Angeles forest and then having a relaxing walk and picnic at Griffith Park.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Phil Whitmarsh of Redbrush has truly been an invaluable asset in the publication of ‘But First, We Fall’, my first poetry collection. He’s been patient, informative, understanding, and inspiring throughout the entire process.

My friends and family have been incredibly supportive and helpful by providing me with feedback and encouraging me on days I feel less than inspired. They’ve brought a lot of joy to the project.

Creatives like @roguerubyproductions , @sad_spice , @criddleclayton , @bundytheshooter , and @reddhawt_ , are helping me take my poetry to the next level. With their styles and collaborations, I’m able to transfer, or rather, transform my poetry to new mediums.

Instagram: @gabriellemarie__ and @becominggabriellemarie

Image Credits
(picture with pink coat & picture sitting in chair) @roguerubyproductions

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