Hello arts lovers!
A couple months ago I received an email in my inbox from some new artists who just arrived in the community, and were looking to make new connections in the arts locally. I’m delighted to introduce dancer teacher, artist and creator Sophie Barbarics, who along with her family and creative partner Janos Lakatos (who you’ll meet next month), arrived here from Budapest recently. Here’s a little insight into what brought this powerhouse to the area.
What’s your background/training/story as an artist?
I started dancing at the age of 10, so basically dancing has always been a major part of my life.
With 20 years of teaching experience, having started instructing at 19, I am an expert in delivering dance education to both children and adults. I received my BA in 2013, and my Master's degree in 2015 from the Hungarian Dance University. I’ve held workshops in Europe and in Asia. I was also asked to teach the children of American actors Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt during their stay in Hungary for two years.
As a choreographer I worked on projects with the Budapest Operetta and the Hungarian Dance University. In addition to my practical work, I have contributed significantly to the theoretical aspects of dance too. I was part of the team that developed Hungary’s national curriculum for modern dance education, and I have written multiple articles for Hungary’s renowned dance magazine, Ellenfény.
Why did you end up in Nelson?
It all started eight years ago when my husband and I first visited Canada. We immediately fell in love with the nature and the people here. In 2022 we decided to take a road trip through Alberta and B.C. and pointed out some of the towns that caught our interest. When we arrived to Nelson, it was love at first sight. We have always felt that life is just too precious to not take risks to fulfill our dreams.
What keeps you here?
This is such a welcoming community that, as someone from Europe, I have never experienced before. I still have to get used to not rushing life and that we can slow down — life is not a chain of actions. For me, being in nature (and not to make an effort to go to be in nature) frees up my creative energies. And I just cannot wait to connect and collaborate with the people of Nelson and the area.
How did you score your biggest professional gig?
I feel that my biggest gig is not the ones that I achieved in papers or so. For me, the real achievement is when I see that people find peace after my classes. The real recognition is to see that they perceive something inside themselves that is wonderful and they take this light out to the everyday life with them. No papers or awards can make as much difference as people who have faith in themselves and in the world.
Any hot tips for people who want to live rurally but be a professional artist?
Meet people in person. Talk. Get connected to the community. Find out more about stories behind the faces. There is so many unique humans living here. In the meanwhile keep on being curious, educate yourself and travel to let new experiences inside.
Are there any new projects that you have in the works?
I’m starting dance classes in Front Street Dance Studio (Tuesdays 7:45 p.m., Thursdays 8 a.m.) which I hope will serve as a nest, a place where everyone can let go, recharge and feel themselves at home. A place where together we can share the joy of moving, and where we can nurture our souls in an accepting and supportive environment.
Wobbling Existence – that's what I like to call it. In today's world, it's more essential than ever to keep moving, allowing art to support us and embrace our broken wings. We need it to stay alive physically, mentally and socially.
I will have Tiny Grooves classes for fresh mamas and their babies on Thursday mornings from 9:15 to 10.
I’m also preparing weekend workshops as well: Creactivity on Oct. 18-19 at SOMA 444, and a floorwork workshop on Nov. 16-17 at Front Street Dance. I am also developing a Creative Lab at SOMA 444 that will end in a show in November. And I’m looking for possibilities to collaborate with the artists and the people of the area as we are here to be a part of this beautiful community. For more information on upcoming classes and performances check out footnotes-dance.com.
Sydney Black is executive director of the Nelson and District Arts Council. Blank Canvas appears monthly.
