We recently connected with Keerati Jinakunwiphat and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Keerati, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

My parents and family have greatly impacted so much of myself in a way that gives clarity to my self love and growth. They work so diligently to support, empower, and love me. Growing up as a restaurant kid in Chicago, observing my family’s small business has showed me how to dedicate and care for my craft and community. They have taught me to always be proud of who I am and lead with love.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a first generation, Thai American artist from Chicago and am based in New York City. My craft and practice centers around choreography, dance, and community. I received my BFA from the Conservatory of Dance at SUNY Purchase, Shortly after, I joined A.I.M. by Kyle Abraham, where I was a performer, collaborator, and choreographer for several seasons. As a freelance artist, I have presented my own choreographic works at the Joyce Theater, New Victory Theater, MASS MoCA, Lincoln Center, The Guggenheim, Chelsea Factory and more. I have been commissioned to set and create works on SUNY Purchase College Conservatory of Dance, A.I.M. by Kyle Abraham, Houston Contemporary Dance Company, Bang On A Can, Princeton University, Whim W’him Seattle Contemporary Dance, New York Choreographic Institute, New York City Ballet, and more.

Notable moments in my career thus far; having the privilege of gracing the cover as one of Dance Magazine’s ‘25 to Watch’ in 2021. In 2023, I had the honor of becoming the first Asian American woman to be commissioned to choreograph for the New York City Ballet. It was an incredible opportunity and to be engulfed in love and support from my family and friends made the special evening unforgettable. Additionally, it was an honor being awarded the 2023 Princess Grace Award winner in choreography.

As a Thai-American artist, being present in two cultures has ingrained in me the invaluable connection of family and heritage while simultaneously being empowered in my own individuality. Choreography serves as my catalyst in connecting with new people, experiencing different places, and learning through shared experiences and perspectives. My work focuses on how we can connect to our own awareness while remaining present with one another. Countless inspirations from films, literature, visual art, sports, and the human experience push me to explore different means of new movement translation and invention. My love for momentum, tactility, and ever changing shifts of weight inspires me to create a visceral experience. I am interested in movement vocabulary that investigates high physicality, connectivity between individuals, strong musicality, and spirited oddity. I believe sharing space and exchanging energy with others in order to create something greater than ourselves is a transcendent and necessary experience. Lastly, I aspire to be a strong representation of Asian American women in the arts with a platform that not only tells my story, but welcomes the experiences of all.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

This may be less of a resource but more of a piece of advice, and that is to not be afraid to put yourself out there! It is still a challenge for me at times, but you never know what doors could open for you if you just knock. How would certain artists, collaborators, or companies know that you’re interested in working with them unless you communicate your desires to them? Our community can be a powerful resource and I encourage us to directly connect and express interest with any space we dream to be at.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

A book that has impacted my management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy is Relentless by Tim Grover. I picked it up over the pandemic when I was looking to go back to my love of training the body and realized how much of that is training the mind as well. Tim Grover was a personal trainer for Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and many more. He delved into how to be unstoppable by strengthening your mindset, knowing and trusting your instinct, observing and adapting to situations, and having unwavering belief and drive.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.keeratijinakunwiphat.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekeeratikid/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keerati-jinakunwiphat-b76759118/
• Other: https://vimeo.com/user29109609

Image Credits
Alexander Diaz and Erin Baiano