Yolanda Wisher shares tips for enjoying a perfect day in Philadelphia.
Poet, musician, and educator Yolanda Wisher has become a significant figure in Philadelphia’s vibrant artistic landscape, drawing inspiration from the complexities of life and death in the city she calls home. Wisher, who was appointed as Philadelphia’s third poet laureate in 2016, is recognized for her commitment to fostering community through poetry and art. Her journey in the poetic realm began around the year 2000 while she pursued a master’s degree in creative writing at Temple University. During this time, she hosted spoken-word nights in Old City, collaborating with prominent artists such as Trapeta Mayson, Ursula Rucker, and Jill Scott.
Her debut poetry collection, Monk Eats an Afro, published in 2014, received critical acclaim, characterized as a compelling blend of blues-inspired poetry and folk traditions. Wisher has played a pivotal role in the Philadelphia arts scene, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage.
In 2023, Wisher assumed the position of senior curator at Monument Lab, a public art and history studio. Recently, she edited a journal marking the 70th anniversary of Emmett Till’s lynching, showcasing poetry and works that reflect on racial injustices. Additionally, she co-curates Healing Verse Germantown, a program aimed at amplifying the voices of local poets affected by gun violence. Her upcoming podcast, Bicentennial Baby, set to debut in spring 2024, will explore the experiences of Philadelphians turning 50, adding yet another dimension to her extensive body of work.
Despite her deep roots in Philadelphia, Wisher describes herself as sometimes feeling like an outsider in the city. Born in Germantown and raised in North Wales, she articulates that poetry has served as her means of forging connections within the community. Currently, she resides in Germantown with her husband Mark Palacio, a double bassist and educator, and their 15-year-old son, Thelonious, where she finds inspiration in her studio overlooking the neighborhood’s greenery.
Wisher enjoys a variety of local experiences that encapsulate the essence of Philadelphia life, from enjoying brunch with friends to exploring art and thrift stores. Her artistic process is deeply intertwined with her daily life, reflecting a commitment to creating, engaging, and celebrating her surroundings. Such experiences culminate in a unique blend of creativity and connection, inviting others to witness and participate in the ongoing narrative of Philadelphia’s cultural landscape.
