Embedded Memories - Ballaro Dance

Embedded Memories is an illuminated installation rooted in honoring personal histories through the lens of scars and their images which live permanently on, and inside of, our bodies. Investigating the memories and stories these imprints hold, we can learn from one another and promote community healing.

 

Inspired first by Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery while highlighting the areas of breakage, golden accents illuminate these stories through numerous lighted lanterns in the installation space ranging in size from 6" - 36" and inventive light pieces affixed to the dancers’ bodies. Deeper connections to Japanese philosophy and the process of healing have been explored through additional research and experiences in Reiki and Butoh. The piece began as a collaboration with NYC-based artist Allison Patrick and has grown and developed through contributions from the Community Imprints collection. 

 

Audience members can go deeper into the process of experiencing the work by participating in SHARE: Community Imprints, a creative healing station to honor the scar stories of our community. Gifting stories through writing, drawing, or a photography will be available during the performances of Embedded Memories.

 

Community MOVERS also have an opportunity to participate in creative workshops capturing their own MOVE: Community Imprints in actions and gestures. Participating community members will have an opportunity to share their creations in a pre-show, site-specific performance. 

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Previous Embedded Memories Performances & Community Imprints Partnerships:  

 

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Brooklyn, NY 

June 2025 

 

LIC Open Arts, Long Island City, Queens 

May 2025 

 

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Brooklyn, NY 
June 2024

 

Aquila's Nest Vineyards, Newtown, CT 

August 2023 

 

The Compost Collective, Forest Hills, Queens 

August 2023

 

Aquila's Nest Vineyards, Newtown, CT

August 2022

 

Universal Preservation Hall, Saratoga Springs, NY

August 2022 

 

The Blue Gallery, New York, NY 

March 2022

 

The Berrie Center, Ramapo College of New Jersey, Mahwah, NJ

February 2022

 

SUNY Brockport, Brockport, NY

October 2021

 

Appleberry Farm, Sandy Hook, CT (Ballaro Dance Gala) 

August 2021