Picture an American artist who weaves poetry, art, and music into a tapestry of hope and connection—meet Morgan Harper Nichols! Born in 1990, this multifaceted creator has captured hearts worldwide with her lyrical words and vibrant visuals, all centered on the question, 'How can we create connection?' From her bestselling books to her ambitious project of writing poems for strangers, Morgan’s work is a celebration of life’s beauty and resilience.
With a massive Instagram following and a knack for turning personal stories into universal truths, Morgan Harper Nichols is more than an artist—she’s a storyteller who reminds us to embrace every season of life. Let’s dive into her journey, from her early days to her lasting impact!
The Making of Morgan Harper Nichols
Born on February 4, 1990, in Los Angeles, California, Morgan Novelate Harper grew up in a vibrant, faith-filled household as the daughter of Bishop James Henry Harper and Pastor Mona Nanette Harper. When her family moved to Georgia in 1993, they founded Kingdom City Church, where Morgan and her sister, Jamie Grace, were homeschooled. At 15, Morgan began writing songs, and by 16, she was performing at local coffee shops while attending Point University. Her early career included a stint as a college admissions counselor, but her creative spark was undeniable, leading her to pursue music and art full-time.
A pivotal moment came in 2007 when her song 'Doesn’t Take Stars to Shine' was featured in Bratz: The Movie, opening doors to perform with artists like jazz violinist Ken Ford. This blend of music, faith, and storytelling laid the foundation for her unique artistic voice, which would soon resonate with millions.
Morgan Harper Nichols’s Unforgettable Creations
Morgan’s work spans poetry, visual art, music, and digital media, all infused with themes of grace, hope, and personal growth. Her debut album, Morgan Harper Nichols (2015), released by Gotee Records, featured the hit single 'Storyteller' with her sister, Jamie Grace, blending contemporary Christian music with folk rock. This album showcased her ability to craft soulful, narrative-driven songs that connect deeply with listeners.
In the literary world, Morgan’s books have become beacons of inspiration. All Along You Were Blooming (2020) is a bestselling collection of illustrated poetry and prose, born from stories submitted by her followers, offering comfort and encouragement. You Are Only Just Beginning (2023) continues this theme, transforming poems into animated shorts that celebrate life’s journeys. Her debut book, Storyteller (2017), contains 100 poems written as letters, reflecting her ongoing project of creating personalized art for strangers—a practice she began in 2017 with a goal to write a million poems. Her app, Storyteller by MHN, and online store, Garden24, further amplify her mission, sharing daily art and words to inspire growth.
Morgan’s style is a collage of lyrical poetry, vibrant digital art, and interactive storytelling, often reflecting her Black neurodivergent perspective (she was diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder at 31). Her work invites readers to find meaning in uncertainty, using worldbuilding and branching narratives inspired by her MFA in Interdisciplinary Media Arts and her current PhD studies in Communication Studies at the University of Georgia.
Why Morgan Harper Nichols Matters
Morgan Harper Nichols’s impact lies in her ability to foster connection through art. Her daily practice of generosity—writing poems for strangers—has touched countless lives, offering solace and hope. With nearly two million Instagram followers, her vibrant illustrations and heartfelt words resonate globally, making her a leading voice in contemporary poetry and Christian art. Her collaborations with brands like Google, Starbucks, and Hallmark, and her role as Vice President of the Board for To Write Love on Her Arms, highlight her commitment to mental health and community.
As a Black autistic artist, Morgan’s work challenges norms, blending technology, art, and narrative to create inclusive spaces for meaning-making. Her legacy is one of compassion, urging us to embrace our stories and find light in every season, proving that art can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.
- Born: February 4, 1990, Los Angeles, California
- Key Works: All Along You Were Blooming, You Are Only Just Beginning, Storyteller, Morgan Harper Nichols (album)
- Notable Roles: Vice President, To Write Love on Her Arms
Ready to be inspired? Snag All Along You Were Blooming and dive into Morgan Harper Nichols’s world of hope and connection!