Daniela and Shoilee both live in New York City. Shoilee grew up in Queens, and Daniela moved to Brooklyn after growing up in Chicago. The following poems depict their journeys of life in the city.
Story
Shoilee Mandal
(she/her) Mentee
Shoilee Mandal is a high school sophomore in New York City. She finds inspiration for art and writing through the diversity within her city and beyond, hoping to deepen her understanding of different cultures and voices through journalism, poetry, and short stories.
Artist‘s Statement
My goal as an artist and writer is to express what I see and feel around me, whether it be beautiful or not-so-beautiful. I’m inspired by the stories I find within the people I encounter, the places I see, and the aspects of life that truly speak to me. Whether it be a small moment or a big event, there’s always a story waiting to be told.
Story
growing my petals
life grows. life is challenging and confusing, but no matter what, there are beautiful petals, waiting to grow.
Story
your little world, here
A poem about the process of creating a community & finding a place to belong after fleeing a familiar land.