E49 Bill T. Jones: The Artist is Present.
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
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 Zaneby 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:
Director of Digital Content: @vickygcreative
Bookings: @itsms.kt
Audio Engineer + Composer: Adam Radice
Original Music composed by Dario Calmese
Visit us at blackimagination.com