mamihlapinatapai 2018
Revival in 2023
(special thanks to the National Performance Network and Kaatsbaan Cultural Park for supporting the creation of this work)
“A look that without words is shared by two people who want to initiate an action, but that neither will start.” I would like to acknowledge, honor, and credit the Yaghan people of Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego for developing such a beautiful word that inspired this work.
obinrin (working title) 2024
(Special thanks to Pepatián and BAAD! for supporting this work)
obinrin is a celebration of the multifaceted essence of Black and Japanese women, exploring the myriad ways in which we can be portrayed energetically, physically, and beyond. We delve into the rich tapestry of identities within the Black and Japanese female experience from a whimsical, tactile, and jovial lens. From the bold and assertive to the soft and contemplative, each portrayal encapsulates the diversity of narratives and perspectives that define Black and Japanese womanhood. Obinrin Merin invites viewers to embrace the complexities and beauty of Black and Japanese women, offering a poignant reflection of their power and presence in the world.
nanibu 2020
nanibu is a visual representation of openness, tenacity and integrity. Its goal is to portray a narrative of the mind utilizing the information learned about how we view royalty. The character nanibu is a visual representation of how said people portray external elegance though they are internally distressed. nanibu was created in an effort to allow the imagination an opportunity to run wild.
二時二分(2:02)2021
This work explores the stages of grieving through research of the body in connection to the mind. What does grieving look like within different realms of musical genres, and how can these ideas be portrayed through a plethora of black bodies? Within the process, the use of the seven chakras aid in reaching an understanding of the emotions behind movement.
COURTNEY 2017
COURTNEY is an evaluation of the relationship between mental institutions, manipulation, and bipolar disorder.
jakob&imani 2024
(Special thanks to Baryshnikov Arts for supporting this work)
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"jakob & imani" is a durational performance art piece exploring the symbiotic relationship between graffiti and the movement of the body.