For Anyone Who Feels Deeply

A newsletter about art, wonder, being human—and some fun facts about me, Moki. (Formerly 'Kusanone')

Moki close up.

I’m Moki Ruminski — artist, writer, and observer of small things. I tend to notice light, texture, and tension in both natural and human environments. I share intimate blinks in time — of the in between, of wonder, of quiet weight. Mostly I photograph and write poetry, and I like to leave my ‘mark’ in the world with my small independent press Rockhound Press by way of tangible zines, postcards, bookmarks, and printed pictures. Usually I carry a sample with me and offer them as a ‘hello gift’ to new acquaintances! Way more fun and engaging than a business card. This year I was awarded Milwaukee’s Emerging Poet Fellowship through Woodland Pattern. It has opened my eyes to an amazing, considerate artist community that has been under my nose all along, which makes me even more excited to keep learning and growing!

Slinging my ‘wares’ at a local art festival.

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A few facts about me are:

• I love the smell of Yarrow plants, I stop to indulge every time I pass them.

• Late nights are almost always preferred over early mornings.

• My childhood was packed full with team sports, and that’s how I ended up with hardware in my collarbone.

• If I were a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle, I would be Donatello.

• Every night I double as a nest for our coon hound ‘Boone’ to sleep on.

• For years I tutored math, English, and German to people of all ages.

• I used to work for the Wisconsin DNR on a fire ecology and dendrochronology research team. Absolutely loved the experience! (Here’s a published article with my photography and words)

• Community Acupuncture is my favorite, it helps with my migraines and stress.

• I am a sucker for hardcore and metal music, but seek out all types of music.

• I am ( FINALLY) almost finished building my and Chloe’s living space!

My manager Boone. I’d advise not messing with him or his deadlines.

Most favorite people ever, from a covid birthday field trip.

Admiring and learning about vintage motorcycle restoration.

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If you’re here, maybe you’re someone who:

• Is tuned to subtleties

• Feels drawn to work that doesn’t rush to explain itself

• Believes in small moments and slow meaning

This space is for sharing that — through photos, words, reflections, and questions. You’ll find images that hold stillness, writing that isn’t too neat, and occasional prompts or thoughts that might help you pause, reflect, or reconnect.

High fashion models meeting reality.

Somethings in life are okay to let go and leave behind…please dispose ‘properly’.

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What I hope you get from this:

• A moment of calm or resonance

• Permission to feel more, not less

• A reminder that small things are worth noticing

Thanks for joining me here. I'm excited to keep at it.

Warmestness,

-moki-

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P.S. - Feel free to revisit older newsletters on Substack, I intend to post regularly on Friday mornings moving forward now, or check out my website to learn more about my photography and see snippets of specific projects I’ve been a part of.

Me knowing that you are here, us growing alongside each other.

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