On Nov. 2, the Blue Lotus Artist Collective in downtown Tucson came alive with boundary migratory, a unique performance curated by Cyrus, the director of the University of Arizona School of Dance.
This innovative event, part of the First Saturday ArtWalk, merged sculptural movement studies with visual art, inviting audiences to explore powerful questions: Who has the right to move? Through what spaces?
Performed by University of Arizona dancers Ella Hendricks, Tucker Nance, and Rashaad Rice, and styled by Charles Palmer, the “moving sculptures” interpreted themes of movement, space, and identity, specifically for Black and Brown bodies. The performance was inspired by and in conversation with Rhythmic Abstraction: The Art of Arthur Monroe, an exhibit running at the Blue Lotus through Jan. 20, 2025.
Cyrus, reflecting on the event, shared how his own 40-year career as a multidisciplinary artist influenced the work. “My past experiences and current perspectives within a borderland community make me think of what it means to hold space, move within boundaries, or cross various spaces,” he said. “This resonates with the abstract images of Arthur Monroe. I wanted to explore what space and a need for place means here in the Southwest.”
A New York Vibe in Tucson
Audience members were captivated by the interplay of dance and visual art, with many commenting on how the event felt that it was “like being in New York City.” “The event exceeded my expectation,” said Cyrus. “The audience was very engaged and connected to each of the movement sculptures. Many expressed their enjoyment of the unique format.”
As part of the Warehouse Arts District’s ArtWalk, boundary migratory underscored the importance of connecting the university’s artistic talents with Tucson’s thriving cultural scene.
“Being a part of the local arts community is of paramount importance to me,” Cyrus explained. “Being a creative in communities off-campus means a great deal to me personally, but it also creates avenues of engagement for the U of A dancers … and facilitates our contribution to the land grant mission.
“Secondly, as someone who moved here with no previous connection, I am constantly on the lookout for community and social connection. I felt immersed in the cultural scene of Tucson!”
