In an era marked by global upheaval and unprecedented isolation, art has transcended borders to connect people in profound ways. "The Crossings: A Global Movement Experience," conceived by visionary choreographer Damaris Ferrer, epitomizes the transformative power of collective dynamics. This project redefines traditional dance and performance, transforming them into a medium for communal storytelling through movement.
"The Crossings" is not just an artistic endeavor; it is a living, breathing manifestation of global interconnectedness. Central to this exhibition is a monumental skirt—over 20 feet in length with eight waistbands—designed by Ferrer to be a conduit for shared experiences. This skirt compels participants to navigate movement together, fostering a deep sense of community and responsiveness. Its journey across the world is a testament to the power of collaborative action and the resilience of the human spirit.
As the pandemic brought about an era of enforced stillness and isolation, Ferrer reimagined her project, stripping away traditional constraints of choreography, performance, audience, and stage. She created an open-ended "movement score" that invites participants—referred to as "movers"—to engage in unscripted, intentional journeys observed by their communities.
This exhibition transcends the conventional boundaries of art-making and performance. It features meticulously documented crossings through photographs, videos, audio narrations, and written testimonials. Each crossing, facilitated in diverse locations from Davie, Florida, to Bogotá, San Antonio, and Singapore, reflects unique cultural contexts and communal solidarity. The skirt, carried in a duffle bag adorned with the signatures of global participants, symbolizes the shared creative spirit that transcends geographical boundaries.
The multimedia elements of this exhibition transform the gallery into a living map, guiding visitors through the varied interpretations of movement. As we immerse ourselves in this experiential journey, let us witness, participate, and be moved by the collective pulse of shared human experiences across the globe. "The Crossings" is an invitation to embrace the intentional journey forward, trusting in the transformative power of collective artistic action, and celebrating the boundless potential of movement to unite, narrate, and inspire.