Ifeanyi Okoro

Ifeanyi Okoro

Ifeanyichuku Nwosu Okoro II (Res) was born in Bellville, Texas, as son to Dorcas and Ifeanyichuku I. Shortly after, his family returned to Aba, Nigeria for a short stint, then resettled in southeast Texas, where he lived and received education in Prairie View and Waller. He attended the University of Houston, where he continued studies in landscape architecture, psychology, and Italian. Mr. Okoro’s inspired by great writers, such as Ezra Jack Keats, Langston Hughes, Pablo Neruda, and, long-time favorites, Gwendolyn Brooks and Robert Frost. Mr. Okoro started performing poetry/spoken word in the early 2000s, donning the name “Resonance”, at many well-known venues, such as The Shrine of the Black Madonna, Red Cat Jazz Café, Shadow Bar, Hyenas, Mahogany Café, Industry Café, and countless others. As a former member of Blackout Arts Collective – Houston Chapter, he used his poetry for activism. The name was shortened to “Res” as the neighborhood became increasingly aware of his talents, love for teaching children, and his work in this historic African-American community. Mr. Okoro is currently an instructor with Project Row Houses’ after-school program, an independent contractor with Klein Forest High School, and runs his small business called “The Drinking Gourd”. Mr. Okoro likens himself to historians. He is an avid history buff, and thrives on circulation the tales and knowledge of the elders and griots.

Underneath Its Skin

Underneath Its Skin examines the roots, flesh, and sinews that connect the community of Third Ward. A physical map expressed through verbal exchange and defined by socio-economic views. This map will show direct lineages, family trees, and development throughout the unique community. This map will allow historical markers to be developed and their value to be recognized in juxtaposition to gentrification.

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