Ep 208: Interdisciplinary Magic: Jessica Ray's Artistry in Dance and Film

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

I’m beyond excited to introduce our guest, Jessica Ray—a dynamic interdisciplinary artist whose work seamlessly weaves together dance, choreography, filmmaking, and visual mixed media. Originally from Oklahoma City, Jessica now lights up the Brooklyn art scene with her diverse and impactful creations. The move was more than geographical; it was a leap into a world where artistic freedom and a diverse network of professionals have profoundly shaped her work.Episode Highlights:

• Career Overview: Jessica’s impressive career includes collaborations with renowned institutions like Jacobs Pillow Dance Festival and New York Live Arts, as well as independent artists such as Kayla Hamilton and Zavé Martohardjono. Her films have been featured in prestigious festivals like the 2022 Dance On Camera Festival at Lincoln Center, and her choreographic projects, under the banner of Jkaris Dance, have captivated audiences up and down the East Coast.
• Current Work at Lincoln Center: Now, working at Lincoln Center, Jessica integrates their artistic vision with the institution's objectives, navigating the balance between creative exploration and branding needs. At Lincoln Center, she is part of a team dedicated to cultural diversity and historical acknowledgment, blending personal artistry with the institution’s mission.
• Artistic Approach: From the stage to the screen, Jessica’s approach to dance is all about collaboration and translation. Each medium offers unique possibilities, and she continually explores how to capture and convey the essence of dance in compelling visual narratives.

Educational Value:In this episode, listeners will gain:

• Insights into Interdisciplinary Artistry: Learn how Jessica Ray merges dance, film, and visual art to create multidimensional experiences.
• Career Development Strategies: Discover how moving to a new city and collaborating with diverse professionals can influence and expand an artist’s career.
• Institutional Collaboration: Understand the dynamics of working within a major cultural institution and how to balance creative freedom with institutional objectives.
• Creative Process: Explore practical tips for translating dance into visual media and the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity across different platforms.

Resources Mentioned:

• W: http://jkariscreative.com/bio

Connect with Jessica Ray: Jessica Ray's Website
Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to [Podcast Name] on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring you inspiring conversations with creative visionaries.Get ready to dance with ideas and film your imagination—Jessica Ray is here to show you how.Thanks for tuning in!