Saved by the bell // Artists Respond Guest Blog

The following guest blog is from Artists Respond microgrant recipient Rheonna Thornton (Lipstick Wars) about their bell hooks-inspired poetry slam and blog. Learn more about this project at kyrux.org/microgrants/2024, and connect with Lipstick Wars on Facebook and Instagram.


Creating the bell hooks poetry reading event has been nothing short of a thrilling adventure—a colorful collaboration with the Lyric Theatre, fellow artists, and a shared passion for honoring hooks’ profound legacy.

It all kicked off in a brainstorming session, where I found myself pondering how Lipstick Wars could extend its impact beyond the traditional poetry slam format. As I reflected on Kentucky's rich literary heritage and the influential writers and poets often overlooked in crucial conversations, inspiration struck. In a time when safe spaces for dialogue are more essential than ever, I turned to the wisdom of bell hooks, and voilà—this event was born!

Guided by hooks’ ideology, I envisioned a gathering where organizers and poets could unite to explore their visions, emotions, and concerns through the powerful themes she championed: love, liberation, and social justice. This journey has not only been about poetry; it’s been about creating a community where voices that matter can be heard and celebrated. Join us as we embark on this transformative experience, honoring the legacy of a true literary giant!

“In bell We Trust” promises to be a truly special evening that celebrates the transformative power of art in all its forms. The event will feature an array of talented poets who will share their work, drawing inspiration from the profound ideas of bell hooks. Each poem will serve as a reflection of our shared experiences, tackling themes of love, identity, and social justice, creating a rich tapestry of voices that resonate deeply with the audience.

In addition to the poetry readings, there will be engaging conversations where attendees can discuss the impact of hooks' philosophy on their lives and communities. These discussions will foster a sense of connection, allowing individuals to share their thoughts and insights, enriching the evening with diverse perspectives.

Visual art will also play a significant role in the event, showcasing the creativity of local artists whose work complements the themes explored in the poetry. This integration of visual art will create a multi-sensory experience, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the night.

I cannot wait to unite in community, as this gathering will be more than just an event—it's an opportunity for us to come together, celebrate our shared journeys, and inspire one another through the power of artistic expression. It’s a night where we can build connections, uplift each other, and honor the legacy of bell hooks in a meaningful way.

Coming soon!

Inbellwetrust believes in the power of genuine connections and insightful discussions. Our blog serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering trust among our readers.

Inbellwetrust is dedicated to creating a vibrant online community where trust and collaboration thrive. The goal of this blog is to provide a space for meaningful conversations that empower individuals to share ideas, experiences, and insights through the ideology, poetry and literature of bell hooks.

We welcome contributions and feedback, as we strive to make Inbellwetrust a reflection of the diverse voices within our community.

—Rheonna Thornton

Lipstick Wars


The “In bell We Trust” Poetry Slam was held at the Lyric in Lexington on December 15. Watch these recaps from the event!

Via @lipstickwarspoetryslam on Instagram

Via @historiclyric on Instagram