Edge Effects: Mele Broomes Public Talk and Reading Group

Mele Broomes is an artist based in Glasgow. Broomes’ work experiments with the extremities of movement and voice whilst investigating her current contemporary practice of African Diasporic dance. Mele has performed nationally and internationally and has choreographed works that has been presented across the UK.

TALK

Mele will give a short talk about her practice as a Black dancer in Scotland in reflection to Serendipity’s publication, Black Women in Dance: Stepping Out of The Barrier.

“It’s tiring and exhausting having to explain to the art scene how problematic it is in terms of equality. I am not an academic. I work in the medium of movement but have some how been caught having to theorise my existence as Black Women in the arts to help others understanding, tying not to loose sight of my practice. There is serious lack of understanding and engagement so I feel compelled to build bridges in creating space for new understandings to support myself and others alike.

The publication made me engage with historic and current trauma. It made me think about how to navigate myself in a racists society as an artist, how to feel empowered and to recognise health when trying to be active in deconstructing racist behaviours.”

MOVEMENT CLASS

“Reflecting on some of themes mentioned in my talk, trauma and health, its important to be aware or remember that everyone hold tension, specific to ones lived experiences. By activating the body in slow gentle motions, stretching, strengthening and raising the heart rate out the usual comfort zones in daily activity. The body release tension, generate energy and stimulate healthier and clarity in thought.”

MELE BROOMES

Mele creates work with and artistically directs V/DA. V/DA is a multi-disciplinary,  collaborative company. Our works are influenced and inspired by social politics, crossing the lines between dance, theatre and music. We have presented works and collaborations at Yorkshire Dance, Riley Theatre, Dance Base, Brighton Fringe, Edinburgh Fringe, Citymoves, The Lemon Tree, Tramway, The Arches and OFTTA, amongst others.  www.variousdanceartists.co.uk

Mele is co-founder and one of the lead artists for Project X, Scotland.

Project X  celebrates and championing dance within the African Diaspora whilst broadening perceptions and representation in Scotland. Through workshops, performances, artistic opportunities, discussions, screenings and more. www.projectxplatform.co.uk