Shana Yarborough

I remember writing poetry at age eight. My mother says I started as soon as I learned how to write, but the evidence was lost in spring cleanings and yard sales. I do not have any drawing abilities, so many of my childhood assignments were redirected to writing stories and poems. My imagination distracted me for hours, and I filled notebook after notebook with words. Over the last twelve years, I have been persistent about exploring my craft and absorbing all knowledge of the writing process. Right now, I have 229 pens, 10,000 sheets of paper (wide-ruled, college-ruled, blank, journal, sticky notes, and napkins), and the challenge to write forever.

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Bio

In 2004, Shana Yarborough published her debut book of poetry, Looking for Love in All the Small Spaces. Her tour, Reading & Relaxation: Poetry at the Spa, was a hit among spa venues, including Shades of U Hair Salon, where she was asked back several times. In 2007, crossing the line between visual and fine art, she published her second book of poetry, Arms of a Lopsided Tree. The book stood vertical, used real pieces of tree for its construction, and is a limited collector’s edition.

Yarborough has always enjoyed sharing her poetry publicly. Her performances allow words to take flight off the page. Her experiences in both theatre and speech competitions have shaped her ability to connect with her audience. She has been requested, on numerous occasions, to perform at different venues, including open mic events and libraries. In 2006, she was one of three poets asked to recite a series of poems dedicated to prestigious African American painter, Henry Ossawa Tanner at the opening of the Tanner Exhibit at the Baltimore Museum of Art. For this event, Yarborough composed a new poem written while observing one of Tanner’s paintings on display.

Yarborough has been featured on several media spots including 92Q with LaDawn Black; WPGC 95.5 with Todd B. and Justine Love; WEAA 88.9FM with Deborah Owens; Countyvibe.com; a televised workshop and reading on MVTV Channel 13’s The Grapevine located in Martha’s Vineyard; and Backstage Pass’s Poetic Reflections.

Yarborough received a BA degree from Spelman College and a MFA degree in Creative Writing and Publishing Arts from the University of Baltimore. She lives in Baltimore, Maryland.