Jerri Allyn

                                



Nature / Merián / Nature
The mind/body split set the stage for Capitalism’s exploitation of nature.
The voluptuous joy of movement outdoors reminds humans: We are Nature.




Photomontage, archival digital print on canvas, hand sewn sateen fabric frame, wooden rod;
5.5’L x 3.5’W x .25”D; with rod 6’L; 
2023-2024. 

Excerpt of ‘Merian banner portrait.’ Photographers: Bill Hebert and Ava Hassinger 

Ideas addressed: humans are nature, deconlonizing oneself, mending the mind/body split through movement in natural settings, body sensuality, aliveness

BIO as relates to erotic power: Award winning choreographer and performance artist Merián Soto is best known for her interdisciplinary solo, group, and collaborative works that explore and reflect upon the legacy of colonialism, Latino heritage, history and culture. She has been presenting solo, group, and collaborative pieces in her native Puerto Rico, across the US, and internationally since the mid-seventies, including performances with Pepon Osorio – while being a Professor and MFA Coordinator of the Dance Department at Temple University.

Merian Inspired by the natural world: Facile in a range of dance vocabulary, Soto creates voluptuous improvisational movements and post-modern structures that she calls ‘energy modes,’ specializing in ‘branch yoga.’ She guides dancers in mending the mind/body split, being alive in the sensual pleasure of embodied movement, and returning humans to their place in nature. 

Aligned organization: Para La Naturaleza  https://www.paralanaturaleza.org/quienes-somos/?lang=es; and Friends of the Wissahickon https://fow.org