Meet Kiayla Ryann | Poet, Yogini, Black Imagineer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kiayla Ryann and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kiayla, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
I think it’s really important to be authentic. That’s something that I value mostly because the only way that you can truly be authentic is, to be honest with yourself, honest about who you are, and accept who you really are. That’s where all of the cool things happen. The more I’ve been able to find acceptance of my authentic self the more I have been free to explore the things that make me curious and keep me inspired.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I’m an interdisciplinary healing artist. I use poetry, performance, and movement facilitation to explore and champion healing projects. I don’t know that I’m so interested in being set apart. I’ve been given a specific set of tools that I am deeply drawn to use to continue my ancestors’ work toward liberation. I started writing poetry when I was 6. I performed in my first play that same year. My mother taught me somatic practices and meditation when I was 7. I have been forging a path at the intersection of these mediums since.
I have had many challenges. I think doubt can be a bully when creating things I imagine but have not seen yet. Sometimes the only way through is to trust instinct and spirit over “proven paths”. It’s often not easy but I have been really inspired by my ancestors and their imagination. I’ve learned to pull on that strength when doubt creeps in.
I’m learning to trust myself and my instincts. I’m learning to embrace joy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my best friend arrives, I will first bring them to my philodendron-jungle apartment. I’ll make braised fish and an herb salad- some bread. We’ll drink some white wine, and play taboo. We’ll sleep in and later catch a show at Da Poetry Lounge.
After that night we’ll get up and head over to Switzer Falls for a waterfall hike before the crowds and heat pick up.
We’ll have lunch alfresco at Home restaurant.
My friend will finally get why I’m obsessed with hot yoga at Kinship Yoga.
We’ll see an improv show at UCB followed by drinks at The Black Cat in Silverlake.
Within the week we’ll make our way to Honolulu Avenue in Montrose and check out the shops before we settle in Lost Books.
We’ll close out the week looking for vintage pieces at Melrose Trading Post.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

It’s hard to narrow down. I am really grateful for so many people and experiences that have helped forge my path.
I’m not sure what success is other than the freedom to express oneself. I feel lucky to have been able to do that as often as I have.
I credit my parents for always encouraging my expression and for making ceilings vanish with their love (if you get the Blue Ivy reference ;>)
My partner is a steady current of creativity and a patient sounding board that I am constantly inspired by. Our coffee shop runs spark so much for me.
Chicago is the most inspiring place In the world, as far as I am concerned. The most incredible creatives call that place home.
And most recently, Adrienne Maree Brown’s pleasure activism. It has really stretched my imagination around what it means to live a life full of joy and possibility.

Website: kiaylaryann.com

Instagram: @kiaylaryann