We recently connected with Shuning Huang and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Shuning thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

The creation of “Thou汝” was a transformative and profoundly inspiring experience for me. As I embarked on this journey shortly after arriving in the United States, I was met with both excitement and trepidation. I was stepping into unfamiliar artistic territory, surrounded by a new set of collaborators and a diverse cultural landscape.

The inception of “Thou汝” began with a deep exploration of my own cultural roots, drawing from the rich tapestry of Chinese dance traditions and philosophy. This was followed by a meticulous process of blending these elements with Western dance techniques and contemporary artistic expressions. It was a delicate dance of harmonizing two distinct worlds – East and West.

It was also during this creation that I began to collaborate with musicians to create music exclusive to this work. I had never thought that my creations needed to have any prominent cultural coloring, but when I stepped into a brand new land to face the people under the growth of different cultures, I had a strong desire to be able to let the audience get to know me through the way of dance through my first work.

Collaborating with a diverse group of dancers, musicians was a revelation in itself. The exchange of ideas, the fusion of different artistic languages, and the shared passion for creating something unique forged deep connections among the team members. Each rehearsal was a cultural exchange in its own right, as we learned from one another’s backgrounds and artistic sensibilities.

The premiere of “Thou汝” was a momentous occasion, as I presented a dance piece that was not only an artistic creation but a bridge between two worlds. It was deeply rewarding to witness the audience’s response, to see their appreciation for the blend of Eastern and Western influences, and to feel the connection we had forged through this shared experience.

“Thou汝” remains a cherished milestone in my artistic journey, a testament to the power of collaboration, cultural exchange, and the universality of dance. It has inspired me to continue on this path of bridging cultures through my art, creating meaningful connections between different artistic traditions, and sharing the beauty of dance with the world.

Shuning, 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 journey in dance began during my early years, and gradually, I discovered my career path within this art form. I attended a specialized art school during my primary education, so my childhood was deeply intertwined with dance. However, paradoxically, during those early years, I often contemplated ways to escape dance classes. I did manage to break away from it for a while, but fate had different plans when I successfully gained admission to the Beijing Dance Academy.

My time at university had a profound impact on me, shaping my understanding of dance within a global context. It was during this period that I began to study Chinese dance and ballet, eventually delving into the world of contemporary dance. Modern dance was the catalyst that led me to decide to pursue my passion for dance in another country. The years I spent in the United States have gradually steered me onto the path of both a dancer and a choreographer.

Witnessing dancers from various corners of the world expressing themselves through dance has been incredibly inspiring. During my tenure with the Six Degrees Dance Company and as an independent choreographer, I’ve consistently engaged in the creative process. I’ve continually sought to infuse Chinese aesthetics and training methods into every choreographic endeavor. This remains an ongoing endeavor for me.

My work primarily focuses on gender, particularly women, and explores the human body within society. Inspiration for my creations often comes from visual images, dance movements, or specific figures. Rather than having a predetermined concept, I prefer to explore and discover during the artistic journey. The initial vision is usually clear, with specific characters, atmosphere, and a general sense of how the dance will look.

Throughout my work, I’ve also discovered and embraced the unique beauty that is distinctly Chinese—subtle and restrained. I admire this restrained beauty, which coexists harmoniously with the dramatic tension in my choreography.

My journey has been a fusion of diverse influences and experiences, and I look forward to further exploring the boundless possibilities that dance offers, both as an artist and as a cultural ambassador bridging different worlds through movement.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a distinct mission and overarching goal. At its core, I see my role as an artist and choreographer as a cultural ambassador and a bridge-builder.

My mission is to facilitate cross-cultural understanding and connection through the medium of dance. I firmly believe that dance is a universal language that transcends borders and speaks to the human spirit on a profound level. It has the power to convey emotions, stories, and experiences that are relatable to people from diverse backgrounds.

My goal is to continue creating dance works that seamlessly blend elements of Eastern and Western dance traditions, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of both. I aspire to challenge preconceived notions about what dance can be and to inspire audiences to explore the beauty of cultural diversity through movement.

Furthermore, I aim to provide a platform for collaboration and artistic exchange, bringing together dancers, choreographers, and musicians from different corners of the world. By doing so, I hope to create a space where creativity knows no boundaries and where artists can learn from each other’s unique perspectives.

Ultimately, my creative journey is guided by the belief that art has the power to break down barriers, foster empathy, and promote a greater sense of global unity. Through dance, I strive to contribute to a world where cultural diversity is celebrated, and where the arts serve as a catalyst for meaningful connections and dialogue between people of all backgrounds.

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

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, for me, is the profound impact that art can have on both the creator and the audience.

As an artist, the act of creating is a deeply fulfilling and transformative experience. It allows me to explore the depths of my own creativity, to express emotions and ideas that may be challenging to convey through other means. It’s a journey of self-discovery, a process of pushing boundaries, and a continuous evolution of my own artistic voice.

However, what makes being an artist truly rewarding is the ability to share these creations with an audience. Seeing how a dance performance can touch, inspire, and provoke thought in others is a profound joy. It’s about connecting with people on a visceral level, often transcending language and cultural barriers.

The knowledge that your art can evoke emotions, spark conversations, challenge perspectives, or simply bring beauty and joy to someone’s life is incredibly fulfilling. It reinforces the belief that art has the power to make a positive difference in the world, one person at a time.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.shuninghuang.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shyulavniga/

Image Credits
BeccaVision, Lili