Movement as an art form and a form of research exists as a distinct discursive modality within social forms of art, with art projects, curatorial endeavors, and publications dedicated to its breadth. I designed and taught this course, which focuses on how to approach the practice of movement as a means of investigating issues at the heart of a specific studio or scholarly practice, while also gaining insight into the complex ecological, social, and political dynamics within a site. The class focuses on the body and increasing awareness of sensory expansion to discover images, stories, materials, and rhythms. We will also examine how movement can lead to development of broader networks for future collaborations and projects. At this crucial time of climate catastrophe and genocide, what narratives become available to us when we move together? What information can we access about a place’s history and present?

We gathered twice weekly in the mornings in a dance studio, alongside some one-on-one meetings as each student developed their own unique site-based movement artworks. We looked deeply into the work of key choreographers whose work offers insights into methodologies of movement (especially Ana Halperin).

Special thank you to Linda K. Johnson and Lydia Matthews

Related projects: TREESEARCH, Concrete Connection