Check out this thread.
http://forum.pjrc.com/threads/16469...ating-RGB-colors-from-accelerometer-gyroscope
I've been told the WS2812 is the same. However, I've seen datasheets with very different specs, but I think some of the info in the original WS2811 datasheet is simply incorrect and they fixed it for newer versions of the file. Then again, the silicon might actually be different? Ultimately, I can not say with absolutely certainty what the specs of those chips really are. They're not made or even sold by PJRC.
As far as POV for spinning poi goes, to really find out you're going to have to give it a try. Good or bad, I hope you'll report back here on how well it did (or didn't) work and post some photos. While I've spent a lot of time on OctoWS2811 and the more technical details, a lot of this practical "it works for X, is so-so for Y, doesn't work for Z" practical advice, I really do depend on good feedback from projects like yours. I hope you'll share what you learn?