Research Statement

MY RESEARCH FORMS FROM THE SYMBIOTIC CONNECTION BETWEEN THE FOLLOWING:

 Creating a healthy bioregion for dancers navigating the dance world biosphere

I present the idea that the individual can create a healthy space for themselves as they exist inside the world at large. One must find the balance between physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional wellness to understand the true core. It is this balance that helps the individual connect with their authenticity. “Our ability to plan and to shape our environment makes us responsible for what we create and for how we choose to live in that creation” (Olsen, 2020, p. 18). Through an interdisciplinary lens, I investigate how dance education, choreography, storytelling, social justice, and somatic studies can work together to inform the emerging artist into the dance biosphere. 

Investigating the intersection of storytelling and social justice

I believe in an inquiry-driven process while telling stories. What is the larger story inside of the smaller story? How can storytelling be used to shine a light upon social justice interrogation? While my work continuously explores female representation, I continue to explore and expand my interest in the universal theme of oppression. “I have always believed that we needed to keep one foot in the community world and one in the concert world. We know that these worlds inform each other, allowing us to challenge ourselves to attain higher and higher standards…” (Lerman, 2014, p. 244). By bringing the individual story into the broader collective experience, we invite the viewer to explore empathy and understanding.       

Somatic studies as a tool to empower young artists 

I view the studies of somatic uses of the body as the current revolution in the dance world. My interests lie in how young artists can connect to their power by utilizing mindfulness, body awareness, and excavating stored emotional responses. “The body is our guide, all we need to do is to learn to listen” (Olsen, 1998, p. 7). I do not view somatic studies as separate from dance studies. My belief is Somatic awareness integrates into daily dance education. I am passionate about continually finding new pathways to generate a connection between the two points of study. My hope is to contribute and create a space where self-care and rigorous dance training find their integration point. “In a moment of clarity, what we do with those coursing energies is unique to the moment…In essence, it is about consciousness. We wake up, or we don’t” (Olsen, 2020, p. 145). Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to the ever-evolving consciousness. I believe we can all dedicate ourselves to creating a healthier world in which artists can coexist.