South London Women Artists April 2014 | Page 74

invited by Gin Dunscombe Maya Angelou Inspired by Angelou’s written work and her extraordinary life ever since I read the first volume of her autobiography I Know why the Caged Bird Sings at the same time as I joined the Women’s Liberation Movement. A guide and role model to me and countless others worldwide, including Oprah Winfrey. A poet, educator, historian, best-selling author, dancer, actress, playwright, civil-rights activist, producer, director, and superb cook. She addresses the big issues - race, class, and gender - with humour and wisdom. Her poem Still I Rise brings hope in the darkest hours. South London Women Artists I’m Inside, Ring The Bell 75