Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Henoch Spinola. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Henoch thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

In 2012, I worked as a freelance contemporary dancer and teacher on a project by project basis in greater Boston. I was seeking more work when a dance community member shared valuable information. They informed me that a dance artist was retiring from a major modern dance company in New York to choreograph a dance to be performed in an opera production. They suggested I connect with her as she sought local dancers to perform in her work.

When working with her, she suggested I move to New York to audition for the company where she previously danced. The idea was daunting, because there was no guarantee that there would be dance opportunities if I didn’t pass the audition. But I decided to take the leap, move to New York, and see what the audition at this major modern dance company would bring.

While I didn’t secure a spot in the company, the experience of staying in New York and navigating a new dance scene was invaluable. It was a testament to the growth that comes from embracing new experiences in our careers.

Henoch, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My mother first introduced me to dance. She regularly attended West African dance classes and encouraged me to pursue movement practices and several creative and artistic endeavors, but she specifically enrolled me in a ballet school. I spent my formative years training in ballet and other movement practices, which was difficult initially. Still, I gradually grew accustomed to training and even found reassurance in the regularity of rigorous practice.

However, towards the end of high school, I found myself considering several occupations. It was a time to think about my path forward and what I wanted out of life. I was unsure what to do but knew I desired something different from my peers. In the end, I chose to pursue a career in dance. That decision did not come easily, though, because there was so much uncertainty, but more than anything, choosing dance made me feel more at home and alive.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Sustaining artists and a thriving creative ecosystem involves various strategies, including—but not limited to—increasing arts funding through grants, expanding arts in schools, and providing affordable studios. It also involves supporting marginalized artists, celebrating local artists, and establishing recognition programs. It also encompasses public participation, policy advocacy, cultural policy development, and raising public awareness. Affordable workshops are a key element of this support, as they provide opportunities for aspiring artists and ensure that arts education is accessible to all.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of my work in dance spaces is the profound sense of personal growth and development that comes from the exploratory nature of engaging with various topics such as conservation efforts, social issues, spirituality, and my Cape Verdean origins, all with kinesthetic creativity. It’s a journey that invites introspection and contemplation.

This work is not a static endeavor, but an ongoing and constantly evolving journey, both within and outside the dance studio. It’s also about the creatives I have met and will continue to meet in the future, each adding a new dimension to my exploration.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/h_spinoladance

Image Credits

First Photo
Courtesy of Melissa Blackall

Additional photos
1, 2 & 6 Courtesy of Melissa Blackall