Words by Bethany Miller   
Photography by Natalie Morris

There is no “they.” This is but one of the many truths spoken by Vanessa German. To call her an artist would be such a dull illustration of her talents. Performance artist, virtuoso, storyteller, sculptor―her medium is her voice, the neighborhood, repurposed relics, paint and pure love. She is a community savior and dazzling truth teller. She is self-taught by life’s experiences, careful attention to history, and the example of her mother. She gives life to the stories of history forgotten and believes her ancestors are alive within her. She spreads love and creativity and possibility despite the tragedies and anger that exist in downtrodden places. “Why don’t ‘they’ fix it?” she wonders. And the truth is there is no “they.” But there is WE.

Vanessa stands alone on the stage. She doesn’t need props. Her voice booms. Her attire is colorful. Her hands constantly move. Clearly, she is artistic. Forceful. Rhythmic. Every word she speaks is rich, and her verbose vocabulary drips with savory spiritual hope in the midst of a troubled reality. On stage in front of the TEDx camera, in front of audiences, for small media outlets, and now a global business audience, Vanessa German shares stories of unfortunate reality: a reality many live in the midst of, and often a reality many choose to ignore.

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