you and i, sistering
we are lightning
across the evening
[forthcoming, 2027]
my silence, an orb weaver’s silk
cocooning my throat
[Weekly Poem, dial 1-855-POEMRX2]
María Fernanda (she/hers) writes and presents poetry. Her poems explore the intimacy of sisterhood, the anchor of intergenerational coexistence, and grief. She crafts literary programs that integrate experiences between artistic enthusiasts and novices, alike. In 2025 alone, María Fernanda presented to audiences in Hamburg, Moscow, Nikiti, and cities across the United States. In 2026, she conducted two months of independent literary research in Granada, after which she presented to audiences in the United States.
We wrote, we laughed, we dreamed out loud and left feeling lighter, brighter, and bolder thanks to María Fernanda. She plants gardens and lights fires, all while reminding us that the world depends on our critical thinking and our contributions as stewards.
— Asmara, Creative Grounds Founder
Maria Fernanda’s literary experience was a great way to practice community listening and admire how Washingtonians keep art alive.
— Left Is Our Language participant
Where We At! series
A series of in-gallery experiences, crafted by María Fernanda, debuted at The National Gallery of Art. Located in Gallery 77 as part of the Gallery’s exhibition Photography and the Black Arts Movement, 1955–1985, participants were invited to write poems and learn about the Black Arts Movement. The title of this program is directly inspired by Black Women Artists Inc.’s name and call, “Where We At!” (circa 1971).
honoring nikki series
This initiative finds its shape in the form of workshops, lectures, and readings honoring Nikki Giovanni’s presence in DC. Readings include curated artist and open mic readers/performers to widen the lens in which we remember.
