In the Where is my B-O-D-Y project, Kun-Yang connects with each collaborator individually. In early February, Kun-Yang traveled to Gus’ studio in NYC for two days.
Gus and Kun-Yang dialogued about incorporating a fresh routine. They exchanged ideas on warming up the body through improvisation to music that Kun-Yang that is not used to utilizing within his dance practice.
Photo: Caroline Haidet of Nel Shelby Productions
Photo: Caroline Haidet of Nel Shelby Productions
Through different improvisation exercises, Gus observed how Kun-Yang often moves towards the left side of his body. On day two, Gus tasked Kun-Yang with a physical exploration exercise that focused on a set of verbs.
Kun-Yang had difficulty remembering each verb which impacted translating the verbs into movement. The pair decided on continuing with this task for future engagements until Kun-Yang had them memorized and could explore his creative movements more deeply.
Photo: Caroline Haidet of Nel Shelby Productions
Following these two days, NYC videographer Caroline Haidet of Nel Shelby Productions provided the footage of each encounter, which served an important role in reviewing everything that occurred— including the improvisations each collaborator was not able to “see” or experience in the same way as viewing the footage.
Support for the research and development of WHERE IS MY B-O-D-Y has been provided by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage.