Today we’d like to introduce you to Shuning Huang.
Hi Shuning, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey in dance began during my early years, and gradually, I discovered my career path within this art form. I attended a specialized art school during my primary education, so my childhood was deeply intertwined with dance. However, paradoxically, during those early years, I often contemplated ways to escape dance classes. I did manage to break away from it for a while, but fate had different plans when I successfully gained admission to the Beijing Dance Academy.
My time at university had a profound impact on me, shaping my understanding of dance within a global context. It was during this period that I began to study Chinese dance and ballet, eventually delving into the world of contemporary dance. Modern dance was the catalyst that led me to decide to pursue my passion for dance in another country. The years I spent in the United States have gradually steered me onto the path of both a dancer and a choreographer.
Witnessing dancers from various corners of the world expressing themselves through dance has been incredibly inspiring. During my tenure with the Six Degrees Dance Company, New York Chinese Cultural Center, and as an independent choreographer, I’ve consistently engaged in the creative process. I’ve continually sought to infuse Chinese aesthetics and training methods into every choreographic endeavor. This remains an ongoing endeavor for me; I’ve also had the honor of attending many shows and performing at various venues in NYC, such as the Mark O’Donnell Theater, Culture Lab LIC, the Tank, Dixon Place, Emerging Artists Theater, New York Botanical Garden and many more.
My work primarily focuses on gender, particularly women, and explores the human body within society. Inspiration for my creations often comes from visual images, dance movements, or specific figures. Rather than having a predetermined concept, I prefer to explore and discover during the artistic journey. The initial vision is usually clear, with specific characters, atmosphere, and a general sense of how the dance will look.
Throughout my work, I’ve also discovered and embraced the unique beauty that is distinctly Chinese—subtle and restrained. I admire this restrained beauty, which coexists harmoniously with the dramatic tension in my choreography.
My journey has been a fusion of diverse influences and experiences, and I look forward to further exploring the boundless possibilities that dance offers, both as an artist and as a cultural ambassador, bridging different worlds through movement.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Balancing life and dance creativity has indeed been a challenging endeavor, and this balance can often bring about pressure, particularly in the realm of dance creation.
Firstly, the pressure arises from the competing demands of life and dance. There are times when responsibilities from work, or family life can weigh heavily, making it essential to allocate time wisely. This can sometimes result in tight schedules. In such situations, effective time management becomes paramount. I create detailed daily schedules to ensure I have ample time for dance creation while also ensuring that other responsibilities are adequately addressed.
Secondly, the pressure in dance creation often stems from the desire to excel in artistic expression. There are moments when I might feel creatively drained or burdened by external expectations. In these instances, I take specific measures to alleviate the pressure. This includes collaborating with fellow artists to share creative ideas and seek fresh inspiration.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a dancer and choreographer hailing from China. My primary areas of expertise encompass Chinese dance, ballet, and modern/contemporary dance. I have had the privilege of training and performing in these diverse dance forms, allowing me to create a unique blend of movement vocabulary.
I’m known for my ability to infuse Chinese cultural elements and aesthetics into my choreography while embracing the fluidity and expressiveness of modern dance. This fusion of traditions sets me apart from others in the field.
What I’m most proud of in my career is the opportunity to serve as a cultural bridge, introducing audiences to the rich tapestry of Chinese dance while exploring the universal themes of human emotion and connection through movement. My work is a testament to the power of dance to transcend borders and communicate on a profound level.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People interested in working with me, collaborating on creative projects, or supporting my artistic endeavors can connect with me through various avenues:
1. Collaboration: I’m always open to collaborating with fellow artists, choreographers, and dancers from around the world. Whether it’s creating new choreography, exploring cross-cultural dance projects, or participating in artistic collaborations, I welcome opportunities to work together.
2. Support: Supporting my work can take various forms. Individuals and organizations can provide financial support for productions, residencies, or dance initiatives. Additionally, spreading the word about my performances and artistic vision through social media or word of mouth is immensely valuable.
3. Workshops and Education: I offer workshops and educational sessions in Chinese dance, ballet, and modern dance. Schools, dance institutions, and community organizations can engage me to conduct workshops, masterclasses, or lectures, promoting dance education and cultural exchange.
4. Audience Engagement: Attendees at my performances play a crucial role. Engaging with the audience after shows, sharing feedback, and participating in post-performance discussions can provide valuable insights and encouragement.
5. Online Platforms: Following my work on social media platforms, attending virtual performances, and sharing them with a broader audience is another way to support and connect.
Overall, I appreciate the support and collaboration of those who share my passion for dance, cross-cultural exploration, and artistic expression. Together, we can continue to create meaningful and impactful dance experiences.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shuninghuang.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shyulavniga/
Image Credits
BeccaVision, Lili
