Margie Johnson, like OG Bobby but just Margie. I’m a poet, writer, artist, teaching artist, actress and director. I’m the Executive Producer of Special Projects at Imagined Life,LLC, an arts advocacy and consultancy firm, I’ve been running since April 2014. Go me! One time for business owners! One time for dreams!

I dream of a better world and I build it with a collection of beautiful souls and creators at The People’s Open Mic #peoplesopenmic, the longest running open mic in Newark, which I’ve produced every Tuesday for the last six years. I build it with Hug the Block #hugtheblock a public art experience and demonstration of love I organize in and for my Newark neighborhood. I build it with Bleek Week #bleekweek an art, poetry, jazz and film festival where we celebrate and honor the life of my friend Deveran “Bleek” Ashe who made brilliant contributions to the New Jersey poetry scene.

So who is Margie Johnson?

I graduated from Science High School, then went on to receive a B.A. in African American Studies from Temple University. I’m a mom of two. Heyy Nola-Jae! Heyy Boaz!  I am a Newarker born, raised and anxious to tell a new tale.

As you follow my blog you can be sure you’ll get the bright side of things and a fresh perspective because as E.L. Hubbart said, “Art isn’t a thing its a way.” Join me as I discover myself and my city in my city!!!

 

Here are a few pics from my Instagram.  Follow me at @bestthingcreated

 

 

Feature image photo credit | SLR Visions