Atlantic Center for the Arts

Residency Statement
During the residency the associate artists are introduced to Embodiology®, a neo-African model of performance-as-improvisation, and through daily workshops, which involves active physical participation and generous reflective discussions, a wealth of self-knowledge is revealed.  Generative spontaneous performances are realized through this method along with a new set of creative tools for developing solo and group choreography. The technologies of dance improvisation, as practiced across the African Diaspora, have largely been hidden, but once revealed they create an engine of unstoppable creativity. With this approach to improvisation interaction with music is critical therefore musicians are also welcome to apply. Our daily group work will lead on to the formation of smaller group or solo works that, with support, will generate their own trajectories throughout the residency.

This residency will be of interest to artists who would assuredly affirm that their entryway into dance or music is through the gateway of Africa and its diasporan peoples’ performance forms. Multifarious dance practices ranging from Sabar and Tango to Popping and Tutting, and Doundounba and Flamenco to Capoeira and Azunto are among those that demonstrate movement languages that reify rhythm, musical presence and performance-as-improvisation. Contemporary dance artists who recognize the influence of these widespread forms on their current practices will also find creative empathy with the values that will be explored during this residency.

Embodiology®, also engages use and analysis of the speaking voice, promoting a cognitive and sensory interweaving that goes beyond formerly held self-perceptions of novelty and daring. As the participants gain fluency between movement, timing, sound and interrelationships, a communicative coherence in performance arises. Indeed, through the daily studio practice, reflective conversation and writing about multi-sensory experiences, the worlds of the associate artists are re- animated such that they lead to previously unimagined levels of awareness, which go beyond the studio, serving as alternative approaches to decision making in everyday life.

Application Requirements

1.            A 2 - 3 page resume or narrative biography (.doc, pdf)

2.            A letter of intent should include:

>             A reflection of your currently held perspectives on, exposure to and/or practice of improvisation. (.doc, pdf)

>             An idea of what you are interested in working on during the residence.

>             General information on influences and interests.

>             Links to 3 videos or recordings in which you are either the choreographer, dancer, director, musician or teacher. Upload up to a 20-minute sample on Vimeo/Youtube/Soundcloud/Google Drive.

Residency Fee: $900

Includes a $100 administration fee, weekday meals and housing; does not include artist materials, transportation, or weekend meals.

Scholarships / Financial Assistance

Only accepted Associate Artists may apply for financial assistance. For details, please visit the master artist details page.

Application fee: $25

If you have any questions or problems submitting, visit the ACA's How to Apply page