ARTIST STATEMENT

As a Black queer mover, maker, and earthshaker, I find myself always reaching and looking back. I look back at my five-year-old self, who sat in front of the television and watched Two by Dove for the first time. Today, my work strives to maintain a connection to the past while remaining deeply engaged with the urgencies of the present. I am absorbed in the collapse of time. I’m choreographically curious about how I, as a maker, can touch across time, thereby collapsing time through affective contact between then and now to form artistic communities across time. I am moved by what moved me, therefore, my choreographic inspirations are always in the space with me. My artistic journey has taught me that dance is one of the most effective artistic mediums for bridging the gap between real life and the stage while expounding on self-exploration and the human condition. I am deeply committed to fostering the creative potential of individuals through the integration of diverse artistic forms, including but not limited to dance, through the interplay of sound, lyrical word weaving, and visual art with the goal of empowering underrepresented communities and their allies while advancing dance as a perpetual metaphor of testimony and social justice.

I am deeply inspired by the legacy of pioneering artists who have shaped the world of dance, and I am committed to carrying forward their cultural memory to ignite meaningful connections across generations. My artistic journey is not just a personal exploration; it is a profound ritual of introspection that seeks to redefine how we experience dance and understand our own narratives. Each time I engage with this art form, I emerge transformed, driven by a powerful call to action that honors the spirits of greats like Mr. Ailey, Ulysses S. Dove, Katherine Dunham, and Essex Hemphill. I strive to embody their essence, channeling their wisdom and creativity into my work, fueled by a vision of health and expansive possibility.

As a choreographer, my mission is to cultivate community and foster relationality through dance. I am unwavering in my commitment to challenge societal norms that create division, advocating for innovative ideas that highlight dance's transformative power. I firmly believe that through movement, artists cannot only change themselves but also reshape the world around them. By promoting diverse perspectives and celebrating our differences, I aim to dismantle the barriers that separate us.

My creative process is deeply rooted in the belief that collaboration is a powerful catalyst for inspiration and innovation. I approach every artistic endeavor with an open heart and an open mind, embracing the diverse perspectives and unique talents of my fellow artists. My guiding mantra, “don’t let me miss the chance to be inspired by you,” serves as a constant reminder to remain receptive to the wealth of ideas and emotions that each artist brings into the space. I firmly believe that dance sometimes transcends mere physicality and technical skill; it is a powerful medium for preserving identity, fostering personal growth, and imparting invaluable life lessons. Each dancer brings a unique voice to the space, and their presence can amplify our communal and collective expressions of artistry.