During two days, the Atelier hosted by Dance Ireland focused on the professional dance practitioner informing by questions around identity, mobility and migration. The aim was to explore, from different perspectives, how the identity of the artists is constructed and maintained in a climate where mobility is necessary for the creative process and the professional practice.

An exciting, challenging and provocative two-day gathering comprising keynotes from Guy Cools and Jenny Roche; presentations from cultural geographers Karen Till and Gerry Kearns; special performances from Manuel Rique (Québec/Canada) and Sun-Feh Lee (British Columbia/Canada), moderated panel discussions and audience Q&A.

Many countries, including Ireland have long prided itself on its open and welcoming of international dance artists. Many see mobility as a key to a successful dance career. However do we have the right models to support mobility?

Key questions to be considered, included:

• What motivates artists’ to be mobile – it is necessary or desire?
• Does working in multiple/different cultural contexts have an impact on an artist’s identity?
• How does an artist maintain his/her identity when working in different cultural contexts?
• Is a nomadic existence (an essential and accepted) part of the creative life?
• Mobility, economic and artistic challenges. How to find the balance?

Find details of the atelier here.

Watch the recording of the first panel, with the participation of Meagan O’Shea, Fearghus Ó Conchúir, Philip Connaughton and Dr. Karen Till. Moderated by Mary Brady.

Watch the recording of the second panel, with the participation of Prof. Gerry Kearns (Department of Geography, NUI Maynooth, Ireland) and the artists Alexandra Waierstall and Maria Nilsson Waller. Moderated by Mary Brady.