Upcoming Performances:
June 14th At West 22nd Street Between Neptune Avenue and Coney Island Creek for Global Water Dances Produced by Artichoke Dance Company
July 12th at Four Freedoms Park for City of Water Day Hosted by Idig2learn
What does it mean to be visible but unseen? To be hidden in plain sight, with no access to you or desire to be accessed. How do we tuck away something so vital to our topography that it is no longer a thought in the minds of those who inhabit the area? Luyster Creek, also known as Steinway Creek, is tucked away in an area of Queens/Astoria that many residents do not visit. It is an area with water that is accessible and should be seen. Luyster Creek’s history is one of industrialization and discard, those who live in the area surrounding Luyster Creek have tried to shed some light to its waters, but nothing has ever stuck.
To this day the site, which has finally undergone some renovation to make it an area where people might visit, is still one where no one goes near. The beautification of the creek does not mean attention or care. Through dance and movement we can bring the creek to light and show its vast and incredible history. History of being a body of water that granted access and connection to flushing creek, east river and the long island sound for mariners. Among this beautiful historical fact surrounding the water's ability to be a great connector, it was also a dumping sight for toxins and for a very long time was a place to avoid because of its smell.
Now Luyster creek is neighbors with a ConEd power plant, and is surrounded by industrialization as well as a newly built film studios. Luyster Creek is surrounded by Industrialization and newness, yet it is still not an area brought up in discussion and is often forgotten and unseen. Through Introspection we hope to bring awareness to our ability to change topography as well as how we have negatively impacted our waters and environment. An area that has supported us through transportation has undergone pollution and is now forgotten. How could we harm our surroundings and a crucial part of our history. How can we, through dance, bring awareness and change? Introspection hopes to bring awareness and bring attention to the site and its history while also encouraging clean ups and communication with NYC Parks, EPA, Clean Water action and other organizations to continue their efforts in cleaning our water fronts.
Sometimes all it takes is a human body to bring awareness to our actions.