Lu Highsmith

Rochester native, Lu Highsmith has had various works published over the last eighteen years including essays, news articles and poems. No matter which form she has chosen to exhibit her talents, they have all been reflective of her passion for spirituality, sensuality and social consciousness.

¨ Essayist
¨ Staff writer
¨ Short story writer
¨ Poet

In 2003, her poem entitled “No One Knows Me” was featured in the “Colors of Life” anthology published by the International Library of Poetry. Highsmith’s “No One Knows Me” was also interpreted via spoken word on jazz artist Jimmie Highsmith Jr.’s CD, entitled “Jacquin” in 2004.

Lu was honored by Mood Makers Books as one of the featured poets in their 2006 “Poetry on the Wall” exhibit. More recently, her poem “You Said…I See” was awarded the “Poem of Honor” distinction at Mood Makers Books 2008 “Poetry on the Wall”.

Performing regionally, nationally and internationally she is also an active member of artist-advocacy group CSWA (Culture Starts With Art!) She is the founder of Lucreations Publishing and Productions. Her much-anticipated book of poetry, “Vicissitudes: The Ups and Downs of Life” was published in October, 2008.

Feb 2008 Lu raised over $900 for RFRI (Rochester Fatherhood Resource Initiative) though her poetic event name Lyrical Grooves. It mixes the artistry of Poetry, Smooth Jazz/R&B and painted canvas art. November 2008 Lu held a Lyrical Grooves and with the help of several other poets, musicians and Toys for Tots they collected more then 100 toys for needy kids in the Greater Rochester area.

When she is not on stage or behind a book she is a devoted mother and wife to her two lovely daughters Ariana and Shataryn Highsmith and her husband Smooth Jazz Recording Artist Jimmie Highsmith, Jr.