EP 33 - "Capturing Moments, Creating Worlds" | David Ellis | New York Times–Featured Poet, Author, Artist, and Educator

David is very much a part of this New Harlem Renaissance and his thoughtful poetry captures that elegantly. His love of this community and teaching is evident as well as his passion for poetry, artistry. - Marcus Samuelsson Featured in the New York Times for his haiku poetry that he paints on driftwood and first poetry book “Beach in City Island”, David has been working in Harlem as a teacher for almost two decades, David fell in love with Harlem the moment he entered. “I feel the souls of those that were here before I was born, especially when I walk down Lenox Avenue.” Most of the poems written in this poetry books are on display at many restaurants and cafes in Harlem. Hand painted on canvas and written in frames.

To learn more about David visit freeliketheseagullsbookstore.com

Motto:

"Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow's not promised. All we have is now."

Powerful Quotes:
1. "Do what you love to do. You're not doing it for other people. You're doing it for yourself."
2. "There's always a way to capture poetry in the everyday."
3. "I want my legacy to be someone who inspired kids, someone who feared God, someone who loved others."

Key Lessons:
• Creativity exists in everyday moments
• Stay present and mindful
• Art is a form of personal expression
• Community engagement fuels creativity
• Passion is the foundation of purpose

Inspirational Moments:
• Writing haiku on driftwood
• Creating poetry with his son
• Teaching students to embrace their creative voice
• Transforming simple observations into art
• Balancing teaching, writing, and artistic exploration

Learning Takeaways:
• How to find inspiration in ordinary experiences
• The importance of staying present
• Strategies for nurturing creativity
• Embracing your unique artistic voice

Recommended:
• Read David's poetry books
• Follow his creative journey
• Explore haiku as a form of mindfulness

#CreativeJourney #ArtisticPurpose #Inspiration