Artist Statement

In my experience, dance has been an art form that has always bled into the other areas of my
identity and has been the primary constant in my life since I began dancing at three years old. To
me, that’s the power of being a dancer: it is always a part of your existence.

In my training before university, my instructors emphasized technical execution, particularly in

ballet. However, after entering the dance program at Colorado State University, I have learned
from my instructors and professors the power and importance of individuality and artistry in
dance. I have also learned that the ability to do this comes from critical thinking and questioning
yourself as a dancer each day in class.

As I began teaching, I needed to begin crafting my approach to teaching dance. Of course, the
understanding and execution of technique is necessary. However, I also wanted to have my
students develop the skills of questioning and challenging themselves as dancers independently,
as well as under my instruction. Since dance is an art form that bleeds into the other areas of
one’s identity, I believe that it is critical to include a level of autonomy in the classroom. When I
design a lesson plan, I include exercises that heavily focus on technical elements but also build
and evolve to include artistry and individuality.

This concept carries into my choreographic style, as well. I choreograph movement that includes
technical precision, but also requires the dancers to think about their own emotions and
experiences to connect to the movement and make it their own. My choreographic interests often
include the exploration of the human experience. This includes interests in the physical processes
of the body to the psychology behind emotions, relatable and shared experiences, and more. As
an instructor and choreographer, one of my main goals is to be personable to my dancers and
encourage thoughtfulness in a space that allows them to do so while also helping them to grow as
a technical dancer.

I believe that dance can be looked at as an independent art form, and as a communal one. With
this parallel, dancers must understand and embody their own strengths and interests, while also
having the skills to relate to the community around them.