We had the good fortune of connecting with Constance Harris and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Constance, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic career because it is the only thing that feels right and true. I enjoy adventure and constantly being in a mindset of “what’s next?”. I don’t want my life to ever become mundane and predictable and going down this path has granted me that privilege.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The focal point of my art or what I like to create is joy and freedom. Dance has been a constant saving grace throughout my entire life and I’ve always turned to it for catharsis, to feel inspired, and to connect with others. Whenever I move, I try to move from a place of deep confidence, something that I struggle to have access to in my thoughts and daily interactions with others. I think the biggest obstacle of any artist, regardless of genre, is maintaining one’s self confidence and vision. I’ve never experienced living in a society where artists are valued beyond being seen as quick entertainment, we’re not seen as individuals that can help the collective to live fuller, braver, more creative lives. I feel like we’re seen as lowly dreamers who don’t really add value to much, which never feels good. Humanity wouldn’t be where it is today (which sometimes doesn’t mean much lol) if it weren’t for dreamers. Dance gives me the confidence to imagine, dream, and do.
I just want to be seen as a person who doesn’t accept any given reality. I have a stubborn confidence to constantly create and recreate my own story and hope I encourage others to do the same.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I like trying new restaurants..my favorite places in Denver are Sukiya Ramen, Fish N Beer, and Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant in Westminster. I love beer. Some of my favorite places have been Bruz Beers. Colorado Sake Company has delicious food and sake on tap. I also really love junk food and Good Times Burgers & Frozen is not only delicious but Colorado based.
When I have the time and energy, I like to go out and dance. Some of the best parties I’ve been to have been at Ophelia’s, Roxy on Broadway, The Meadowlark, and Milk Bar.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a shoutout to fellow dance artist and scholar, Donna Mejia. If it was not for Donna I would have never made it out to Colorado back in 2018. She recognized something within me and gave me the utmost encouragement and support to pursue dance in higher education. Taking the leap to get my Masters in Dance at the University of Colorado Boulder, where Donna is on faculty, has impacted my life as an artist in so many ways. I feel like my artistic voice and vision is stronger and I’ve built relationships and collaborated with so many people who inspire me to push harder. I’m very grateful for her support.
Website: www.danceconstancedance.com
Instagram: connie_love_art
Youtube: Dance Constance Dance
Image Credits
Miguel de Leon Randy Poe Asa Zalles Milner