Theresa Davis

Theresa Davis is a multifaceted artist and educator who has made a significant impact on the world of poetry, education, and storytelling. An acclaimed poet, storyteller, educator, and author, Theresa is known for her dynamic presence both on stage and in the classroom. Her diverse talents have earned her a reputation as a compelling performer and a passionate advocate for education and the arts.

As a poetry slam champion and the host of the award-winning open mic event "Java Speaks," Theresa Davis has become a prominent figure in the spoken word community. Her performances are celebrated for their emotional depth, authenticity, and raw power, captivating audiences across the nation. She has graced numerous stages as both a poet and a keynote speaker, sharing her unique voice and perspective on life, love, social justice, and the human experience.

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Theresa’s journey as an educator spans over three decades, during which she has distinguished herself as a classroom teacher specializing in cross-curricular education. Her innovative approach combines various disciplines to create a holistic learning experience that resonates with students of all backgrounds. As a teaching artist, she brings the same passion and creativity to her workshops and lectures, inspiring students to find their voices and express themselves through the art of poetry and storytelling. Her ability to connect with students and encourage them to engage critically with the world around them has made her a beloved figure in educational spaces.

A seasoned slam poet, Theresa Davis has been competing both individually and as part of teams for over a decade. Her talent and dedication to the craft were recognized in 2011 when she won the prestigious Women of the World Poetry Slam, an achievement that cemented her status as one of the leading voices in contemporary poetry. Her powerful performances often tackle challenging subjects, including identity, race, gender, and social justice, offering a unique blend of vulnerability and strength that resonates deeply with her audiences.

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Theresa's contributions to the literary world extend beyond her live performances. In May 2013, she published her first full-length poetry collection, "After This We Go Dark," through Sibling Rivalry Press. The collection, a testament to her lyrical prowess and fearless exploration of difficult themes, quickly garnered critical acclaim. It was honored by the American Library Association, and the book can now be found in local and college libraries worldwide, ensuring her voice continues to reach readers far and wide.

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Building on the success of her first collection, Theresa released her second poetry collection, "Drowned: A Mermaid’s Manifesto," in the fall of 2016, also with Sibling Rivalry Press. This work further established her as a vital literary voice, earning the distinction of being named one of the "Ten Books All Georgians Should Read." The collection is a powerful exploration of themes such as survival, resilience, and the intersections of myth and reality, drawing readers into a world where fantasy and harsh truths collide.

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In addition to her writing and performance achievements, Theresa has played a significant role in fostering the literary and spoken word communities in Atlanta and beyond. For six years, she served as a teaching artist and outreach poetry coordinator at Georgia Tech, where she inspired students to explore the art of poetry and spoken word. Her commitment to nurturing the next generation of poets and writers is evident in her ongoing involvement in literary events around Atlanta, where she frequently hosts, performs, and participates.

One of Theresa's most innovative contributions to the arts is her one-woman show, "Then They’ll Tell You It’s All in Your Head," which made its debut in the fall of 2017 as part of the 7 Stages Home Brew series. The show, a powerful exploration of mental health, identity, and personal narrative, showcases her ability to blend storytelling, poetry, and performance art into a cohesive and moving experience. The performance was praised for its honesty, vulnerability, and the way it challenged audiences to confront their own perceptions and biases.

Currently, Theresa serves as the Literary Events Coordinator and facilitator for The Charles “Jikki” Riley Memorial Library at The ArtsXchange, where she continues to support and uplift voices within the community. Her role involves organizing events, workshops, and readings that provide platforms for both emerging and established artists. Her dedication to creating inclusive spaces for artistic expression has made her a key figure in the Atlanta arts scene.

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Beyond her work in Atlanta, Theresa is a sought-after workshop facilitator and keynote speaker for educational institutions across the nation. She brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the transformative power of storytelling to her engagements, encouraging participants to explore their own stories and use their voices for change. Her workshops often focus on using poetry and spoken word as tools for self-expression, empowerment, and activism, reflecting her belief in the power of words to effect meaningful change.

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Theresa Davis's impact on the arts and education is profound and far-reaching. Her commitment to fostering creativity, her dedication to teaching, and her unwavering advocacy for social justice have made her a respected and influential figure in both fields. Through her poetry, performances, and educational work, she continues to inspire, challenge, and uplift, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of artists and educators.