ISSUES #22: MAY 2016
BLACK AUTHORS
NOV/DEC 2015
Jasmine Mans wears many hats. She is an author, poet, an amazing spoken word performer and a teacher. She uses all her roles as mediums to create and express her vantage point on social issues, personal issues and her art. The Newark, New Jersey native has been writing
Jasmine released her first book “Chalk Outlines of Snow Angels” in 2012 to high critical acclaim. Her ability to craft a verse and put the reader right in the middle of the emotion she expresses catapulted her into an elite class of powerful poets/writers that communicate the Black experience eloquently. Chalk Outlines includes works addressing issues varying from broken relationships, fear, racism, sexuality, death and the overall human experience. Jasmine’s writing style gives the reader a first class, front row seat into her vision. And what a view it is. Jasmine pulls no punches. Her works are wrought with emotion and candor and sometimes take the reader to the ugly edge of the cliff to peer into our humanity (or the lack thereof), while other times holding the mirror up the reader to encourage self-love, empowerment and healing.
As much as the Chalk Outlines reading experience transports the reader into her world, nothing… and I mean NOTHING compares to seeing Jasmine bring her words to life on stage. This is where I was first introduced to Jasmine Mans. The first piece I ever experienced was in 3-D as she performed “I Know You Didn’t Mean To Kill Him”. I was floored. More importantly I was put on a mission to learn more about Jasmine’s
work. I have yet to be disappointed.
poetry since middle school. She continued honing her artistic skills through Newark Arts High School, the first performing arts high school in the U.S. In 2014 Mans graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Madison receiving her BA in African-American Studies (Black Theory & Literature). She is the recipient of the Star Ledger – NJPAC; Arts Millennia; and (New York) Knicks Poetry Slam Scholarships and awards.
In 2012, Jasmine was chosen by Glamour Magazine, as one of their Top 10 Most Influential Woman in College. She competed in HBO’s ‘Russell Simmons Presents Brave New Voice’ and ‘Knicks Poetry Slam’ competitions. Whether critiquing Nikki Minaj as a role model or celebrating the presence of a Black couple in the White House, she is not afraid to stand and deliver representing her beliefs. Jasmine uses spoken word to single-handedly bring change to the world with positive agitation; hoping to prompt dialogue where there is normally fear. Her goal is to encourage bravery and activism in the leaders of tomorrow.
Jasmine Mans performing "I Know You Didn't Mean To Kill Him"
Jasmine Mans performing "You Gon' Get This Work"
In 2013, Jasmine released her first multi-media project, Black Boy Gold, which is critically acclaimed for its highlight of real and overlooked issues facing black men. It should come as no surprise that Jasmine has been deemed “The Lauryn Hill of her generation.”
As a teacher, Jasmine began mentoring younger poets and teaching creative writing in the University of Wisconsin’s First Wave program. Jasmine says “realizing the difficulty that may arise for young artists in being able to formulate their thoughts and ideas into words, I enjoy developing curriculums that engage and expose all ages to the creative writing and performing process through poetry and lyrical music.”
Jasmine Mans performing "Michelle Obama"
Jasmine has shared the stage with many national acts including Mos Def, Goapele and Janelle Monae, Pharrell and NoMalice of Clipse. She is now planning her Pens and Needles Tour in London, England as a headliner.
Great things to come from this beacon of artistry. All the best to Jasmine Mans.
V. Ray
#positiveblack
#RiseShineRepeat
