Reflection

Reflection

I wanted to deliver a message about the interconnectedness of water in our lives and about how water ties us together. Being a ballerina, I was intrigued by the idea of combining two essential elements of my life. In preparation for the performance, I researched the ways drinking water was collected and made accessible to citizens. Although water filters seem to be commonly used, I was surprised to see how dependent Korea was on natural water reserves, like mountain springs. These reserves are not limitless, and I was suddenly struck with concern of running out of fresh water. I learned that these issues were only more complicated when I started reading about how interdependent different groups of people were on water. If someone gets first access to a water reserve, then the fate of that pool is in the palm of their hands. I wanted to make this interconnectedness clear, and so I put together my piece with these thoughts in mind. Through the process of choreography and practice, I began internalizing the things I had learned about the life of water. Although I was initially inspired by my existing personal interests, as I moved through the steps of creation, I found myself motivated and inspired by my personal discoveries as well. It became a special opportunity for me to reflect on my connection to the natural world around me, and my hope is that viewers also share my experience. My goal was to reach out a metaphorical hand, conveying a feeling of interconnectedness and dependency on water and on each other. Looking forward, I am going to continue researching and looking for ways to get involved with conservation, expressing those new ideas artistically as appropriate.