E49. Bill T. Jones: The Artist is Present‪.‬ The Institute of Black Imagination.

Today’s episode is with choreographer and dancer Bill T. Jones. Jones is an award winning artist and legendary dancer. His work uses storytelling, movement, and multimedia elements such as spoken narrative and videotape to examine identity, social issues and autobiographical elements of his life. His 43-year long career reminds us on the importance of gratitude and remaining present in your life and artistry. 
In today’s conversation we’re reminded of the power in investigation. We also explore what it means to create amidst a state of grief. And the importance of spending a life in service to others. 
Things mentioned
2010 Kennedy Center Honors - Bill T. Jones
FELA!
Arnie Zane: An Introduction
Bill T. Jones: Still / Here with Bill Moyers
What to read
Story/Time: The Life of an Idea by Bill T. Jones
The Emigrants by W.G. Sebald
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison 
The Spirit in Man, Art and Literature by Carl Gustav Jung
Body Against Body: The Dance and Other Collaborations of Bill T. Jones & Arnie Zane by Bill T. Jones, Artie Zane, Elizabeth Zimmer 
Democracy Moving: Bill T. Jones, Contemporary American Performance, and the Racial Past By Ariel Nereson 

What to listen to
Fela! (Original Broadway Cast Recording) - Album by Fela Kuti
I Will Move On Up a Little Higher - by Mahalia Jackson
September by Earth, Wind & Fire

Who to follow
Follow Bill T. Jones on IG @billtjonesarniezaneco
You can also find his company here.

This conversation was recorded on July 9th, 2022.
 
Host Dario Calmese 
Producer: Coniqua Johnson 
Visual Art Direction and Designs: 
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