Sorcha Duncan
Sorcha Duncan was born in Lakenheath England, however, when asked where she is from, she often replies "do you want a long list or a short one." Her parents spent time in the military, but that didn't really cover the extent to which they moved around. Her family just seemed to like change and adventure. Even when she couldn't use her family as an excuse any longer, she still seemed to have itchy feet, moving considerably. When asked why, she has said "I just love the various people and cultures the world has to offer. Each has it's own beauty and peculiarities." Partly out of necessity and partly because it was time, she finally set down roots in Virginia.
Although not aware of her condition until 1993, Sorcha has been diagnosed with Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy type 2i. Facing this condition as an adult with life's responsibilities and no safety net, she has moved forward. Seeking to aid not only herself but others as well, she turned to her belief in art and its ability to heal and reach people on levels they may not even be aware of. It was this that brought her art to light. She is a poet able to make you feel her world and see the things you had forgotten. Her book of poetry and art called Behind the Cane raises both money for research by and awareness of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and all the people that both they and she strive to help.
Sorcha has been interviewed on shows such as PM Arlington, the Labor Day Telethon and Wordy Birds and her book has been written up in magazines both regional and national. Sorcha has done readings with the Shockoe poets at Shockoe Espresso, Word Stage, Virginia Poetry Society, art6 Bend Your Ear, as well as an occasional Slam Richmond event. She has been invited to read and discuss inspiration and process by both visual artists and poets.
Sorcha does every thing she can to fight her condition and add to life's experiences. She has been a skier, camper, hiker, biker, dancer, Ranger, horseman and more. She is a fisherman and an animal lover. She has a degree in Natural Resource Conservation. She is a GIA Graduate Gemologist, a Poet and an Artist.