Seeking the Creative: Valencia Wilianto, Poet

Valencia Wilianto. CREDIT: Valencia Wilianto

How would you describe your art in three words?

Honest. Human. Imperfect.

Valencia Wilianto, Poetry in the Eyes. CREDIT: Valencia Wilianto

Valencia Wilianto turns her everyday surroundings into poetry. This creative is heavily inspired by the world she lives in, whether that be the strangers that walk past her or the sun that sets over her head. Her work is detailed and vivid, creating a clear, serene picture in your mind’s eye. Valencia aesthetically arranges her words and stanzas, enhancing the reading experience—making you pause or stop at all the moments this poet intended. Reading her poetry is a sentimental experience, and something Valencia hopes can connect herself with her audiences. You can read more of Valencia’s poetry and subscribe to her work at: https://valenciawilianto.substack.com/about?sort=people

Where/how do you gather inspiration?

The best inspiration always comes unexpectedly.

In my luckiest days, where I have the privilege to travel somewhere far from home.

Or you find yourself wandering around a park, admiring the orange sun that tries to warm you, smiling at an old couple who hold hands while they sit on a bench, remembering your own childhood as you see kids running around with their mothers. If you’re fortunate enough, despite all the burdens laying on the back of your head, you’ll feel lucky enough to be here, right at this second.

Some nights the words may just flow through your head, until you realized it may relate to the series you watched a couple of days ago. Or a TikTok video. Or even a brief conversation you had with your best friend.

And the last most importantly, all of those struggles. The things we barely want to think through, let alone talk about. I think it’s fair to say that we do not only write or make something out of things we have already figured out, but also on the things that have not been answered just yet. Writing is one way to figure things out on your own.

What do you hope audiences retain from your work?

I value intimate connection deeply. I would want each person who reads the pieces to feel like they’re close to someone. Even though you might not know them, or they’re far away, or just out of reach, you’re still with them because you feel it as you read it. That applies to our connection too, you and me. Who said strangers don’t have the privilege to love one another, or to care for each other? This world is too big for anyone to feel like they’re alone. No one is truly alone. They just didn’t reach.