Arts Directory

About

Artist Bio

Ron Rash, award-winning author of Serena, says about Kimberly: “she writes with eloquence and empathy about an important part of Southern history – too often neglected.”

Kimberly’s literary voice is rooted in the Southern tradition of storytelling, informed by her British and Southern lineage. She is an award-winning poet who entertains and educates with poetry that is both poignant and inspiring. In her debut book of poems, Lindy Lee: Songs on Mill Hill, Kimberly chronicles the lives of textile workers in the Piedmont region with historical accuracy and imaginative insight. These are poems of sorrow, joy, and redemption that linger in the heart. Among many titles and honors garnered: former Carl Sandburg NHS Writer-in-residence; TedX speaker; and slam pioneer turned curator. She is a current member of the SC Humanities Council’s Speakers Bureau and her work is included in the South Carolina Poetry Archives at Furman University. Kimberly is a SC Certified ELA Teacher as well as a SmartARTS teaching artist and expert in arts integration.

Artist Statement

I love celebrating our state’s art, history, and accomplishments through verse. I find inspiration for my own poetry in the beautiful landscapes and rich history of our area. I started my journey in poetry when I founded the first poetry slam in South Carolina. I continue to run the non-profit Wits End Poetry. While I consider myself more page than stage, I love helping emerging poets express their voices through performance and page poetry.