2017 Inspirations
I want to reflect for a moment on what exactly has inspired me to create this space. I realize there are hundreds of dance influencers and advocates out there. People and publications who write about our troubles, post fun and amazing dance videos, model and publicize certain brands, and create where they feel something is missing.
I'll be honest. Over the last 18 months (maybe more), I've felt a longing to do more than just dance. I joined a non-profit last year in hopes of filling a void. It helped for a while. I felt more invested, more fulfilled. I felt a direct connection to the world outside of my usual (and incredible) 10am-6pm. However, as much as I loved it, my responsibilities grew to be more than I could handle on top of my very intense primary work schedule. So, I took a step back.
This left me in the same place I started. Looking for more, wanting something extra. I started digging around on Instagram, on local bloggers sites, in local shops. I looked at what was in my immediate surroundings. The inspiration was right in front of me. I am extremely fortunate to have connected and crossed paths with an enormous contingent of creatives. Very intelligent, ground breaking, honest, and humble creatives of all genres. There is no way I could possibly rank these people and publications and there is no way I could list every single one of them (there are so many). So here are just a sampling.
- MY FRIENDS: Paige Fraser, Rena Butler, Alice Klock, Oscar Carillo, Katie Kozul, Keli Gagen, Natalie Liebert, Owen Scarlett, Florian Lochner (and his fiancé, Juliano Nunes), Noelle Kayser, Craig D. Black Jr.. This list doesn't even begin to cover it. From their fashion, to their unique talents, to their wit, intelligence, and go get 'em attitudes. I am in awe of each of you. Man this list reallllllly doesn't even begin to cover it. From LA to NYC to Barcelona to Berlin. Look them up! They are fantastic.
- CELEBRITIES AND WELL KNOWNS: Misty Copeland, Emily Oberg, Peter Chu, Alexandra Damiani, David Hallberg, Violetta Komyshan, Shai Chung (drunkonshoes), Ebony Williams, Daniil Simkin, Taryn Kaschock Russell, The Barton Sisters (Axis Connect). If you don't look up my friends, then you should definitely look up these guys. I have thoroughly loved working with and following these people on instagram. Young entrepreneurs, advocates of dance, inspirers of the new generation of creatives, pure fun and laughs. If you're in to fashion, music, sneakers, ballet, contemporary work, teaching, then these are the people I would recommend.
- PHOTOGRAPHERS/VIDEOGRAPHERS/DESIGNERS: Amanda Delgadillo (she's my sis!), Lee Gumbs, Quinn Wharton, Jacob Jonas (Cameras and Dancers), Isaac Aoki, Nick Korkos, NYC Dance Project, Chloe Hamilton, Marquet K. Lee, Hogan McLaughlin, Sam Begich. Take a look at some of the most beautiful, innovative, in-depth, radical shots, videos, and clothes. These guys know what's up. I don't obsess over many things but I can say without hesitation that I am obsessed with these creatives, some of whom I am lucky to call my friends.
- COMPANIES/ORGANIZATIONS/COMMITTEES: No)one Art House, LA Dance Project, Hubbard Street's Circle Places, New York City Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Millennium Dance Complex (Jojo Gomez is one of my faves), Hypebae, Sporty and Rich, Man Repeller. I am so down with the kind of site-specific work that No)one Art House is doing (check out their most recent performances for Refinery 29's 29 Rooms). LADP really knows how to work with dance on film. Circle Places is a new initiative that is continuing to evolve. NYCB is killing it with their fashion collabs and promos for new works. AAADT has always had a knack for community involvement. MDC has the sickest dance videos- I wish I could learn all of them. The last 3 have been my go-tos for all things streetwear, new fashion trends, and enjoyment.
Hit me up if you'd like to know more about these people or if you want more inspirations. There are so many others who I have met but don't feel comfortable listing them here. Or let me know what else I'm missing. I know there is so much out there.
Happy 2017, everyone. I hope 2018 brings more to discover, more to hope for, and more laughs than ever before.
Love, Ali