Creator Spotlight with Spoken Word Artist Shannon Kerrick
This week, we are pleased to introduce spoken word artist, Shannon Kerrick.
What was the inspiration behind becoming a creator? What do you enjoy most about the creative process?
For many spoken word creators, the inspiration stems from a passion for personal storytelling, self-expression, and connecting with others. Through powerful words with personal experience behind them, I use spoken word as a way to express myself about certain situations I have physically, mentally, financially, and emotionally journeyed through.
As for what I enjoy most…I enjoy sharing personal stories and emotions that might connect to someone else who may be experiencing the same situation. I also use writing spoken word as a form of therapy and self expression. I’ve tried putting some of my words with a rhythm and tone but haven’t ever had success with that part!
Can you talk through your creative process? How long does it take? Does everything you produce make money?
My creative process typically involves inspiration from personal past experiences. It involves remembering certain details such as people, places and things.
It also involves crafting words with rhymes and rhythms. It takes time to create a piece of spoken word depending on inspiration and memory refinement needs.
None of my spoken word pieces have landed me any money. I seek opportunities through writing for personal expression. I’ve never went to an open mic night or anything like that.
I need to copyright my creations beforehand.
What do you think is the biggest misconception about your line of work?
One common misconception about spoken word is that it’s only about ranting or being confrontational. Although some spoken word pieces may be powerful and provocative, the art form of spoken word forms a wide range of styles, tones and themes. That includes Storytelling, poetry, slams, and preforming arts. It’s a diverse and expressive art form that can explore various topics, emotions and experiences. By recognizing its depth we can appreciate the unique value and impact of spoken word.
When did you first become aware of copyright, and why?
I first inquired about copyright for my spoken word creations to establish legal proof of ownership. Copyright protection helps me maintain control over my creations and ensure I’m credited properly.
Have you experienced copyright infringement and, if so, how has it affected you personally and financially?
I have never experienced copyright infringement on social media platforms, blogging or publishing sites, performance or event websites. I have though entered a poetry contest through Eber and Wein and made it to the semi finals and will have the creation I entered into that contest published in a teaching book that will be available for purchase. That piece of work will be published in Eber and Erin’s next anthology. For that piece, I wanted to establish copyright ownership but at that time I could not financially accomplish it. Fortunately, in this instance, my work was not infringed upon.
What do you do when you encounter someone stealing something you’ve invested your intellect, time, and money into?
If someone tries to steal my intellectual property I would consider the extent of the infringement and its impact on my work. I would reach out to the person or entity responsible for the infringement and request they stop using my work or provide proper attribution and compensation.
If necessary I would report the incident to the relevant platforms, websites, and authorities, as protecting my intellectual property is crucial.
What is the best piece of advice that you would give other creators in your field about copyright and how to protect themselves?
The best advice I could give other spoken word creators would be to regularly search for unauthorized use of your work. Also keep records such as original copy or copies of all your creations and dates of creation to establish ownership, as well as copyright registration information.
What is your biggest copyright-related challenge?
Financial constraints are my biggest challenge related to copyright. I am on a fixed income. I was born with a genetic bone disease called Osteogenesis imperfecta. Osteogenesis imperfecta has affected my ability to work and earn only $967.00 a month, which is all spoken for when considering my rent, utilities, and personal expenses. I don’t have the financial resources to invest in copyright protection, legal fees, or professional advice. Those challenges make it difficult for me to protect my creations effectively.
How has AI technology impacted your works and career?
AI technology could impact my creations and career as a spoken word artist in many ways. Ultimately, the impact of AI on my creations and career will depend on how we choose to engage with it and adapt it to the evolving landscape.
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