The arts scene has been growing over the years, with poetry nights and art showcases popping up in every corner of the county, from downtown Fayetteville to Hope Mills. These events allow for creative expression to be realized and put on full display for the community. Elegant Expressions is the newest addition to the ever-growing list of events that tantalize the mind and eyes. A monthly event at Dirty Whiskey, located at 5431 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. and the show starts at 7:15 p.m. General admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and VIP is available for $100. Guests must be 21 to enter. Don’t miss this month's session on Wednesday, Jan. 29: Elegant Expressions: The Whiskey Way. Tickets can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/4gHqOAc
This event is the perfect unity of visual and spoken art (poetry). The brainchild of Suave the Poet and Poetic Zae, Elegant Expressions is elevating the artistic experience of the community while giving a platform to the area's most talented individuals. Each month, Elegant Expressions will offer a new curated experience for guests featuring live art from a local artist, an open mic, and a panel discussion on a selected topic for the night. This month's theme is exploring love and romance in a contemporary world and featuring the smooth sounds of jazz and the melodic voices of local poets and spoken word artists. Guests can grab a drink from the bar, find a cozy seat, and immerse themselves in the one-of-a-kind experience. Featured artists for events will be on hand to discuss, sell, and even create art on-site, as well as custom coloring sheets for all those in attendance. Ending the event is the round couch discussion. This is a perfect opportunity for attendees to interact at the event. These discussions are meant to explore the theme of the night in more depth and allow a safe space for the creative process.
Previously held in another location, Suave and Zae went into 2025 determined to rebrand and start fresh with Elegant Expressions with the intent of drawing the crowd the event is curated for.
“We elevated an idea from an experience that we had out in Raleigh at the House of Arts. Elegant Expressions is that place where you can still experience art and creativity, in a curated space that involves stimulating conversation,” Suave said.
Both Suave and Zae are local poets and spoken word artists, passionate about bringing the art form to everyone, from every walk of life and how art reflects the times we live in. Poetic Zae or Isaiah Ellsberry is also a community activist and workshop facilitator, with numerous successful events under his belt. They both want to see this event become a monthly staple in the community. A place for the great minds and artists of Cumberland County to come together, exchange ideas, and immerse themselves in creativity in the space.
Suave the Poet and Poetic Zae both have a full lineup of shows coming up. To stay up to date on the monthly event, follow both on instagram @Suavethepoet2.0 or @Poeticzae