Dance Ethnographic Research (Queer Flow Contemporary Dance)

Tim Tsang Start Date: Feb 1, 2024 - End Date: May 31, 2024
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Study/Degree Abroad
  • Shanghai, China
  • Taipei, Taiwan
  • Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Hong Kong
  • Singapore

My Travel Story

by: Tim Tsang Start Date: Feb 1, 2024 - End Date: May 31, 2024
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Study/Degree Abroad
I am requesting funding to support the research phase of my project, which seeks to explore the intersections of queerness and dance in China. As a graduate student pursuing an MFA in Dance and a Certificate in World Performance Studies at the University of Michigan, this research is part of my graduate studies, engaging in dance ethnographic studies. I am committed to advancing our understanding of cultural expression through movement.

My project aims to investigate how queerness manifests in contemporary Chinese dance practices and its implications within the broader cultural landscape. This exploration will involve gathering movement and video materials from queer Chinese artists across Asia, which will be integral to the development of a solo performance and dance film.

The funds will facilitate several key components of the research:

Interviews and Training: I plan to conduct interviews and training sessions with 3-5 queer Chinese movement artists across Asia. These interactions will provide invaluable insights into their artistic practices and perspectives on queerness in movement.

Travel Expenses: Funding will cover travel expenses associated with meeting and collaborating with queer Chinese artists in various locations across Asia. This includes transportation, accommodation, and other logistical costs.

Equipment and Materials: Necessary equipment such as cameras, recording devices, and dance studio rentals will be essential for capturing movement and video materials during the research process.

Research Dissemination: The acquired materials will be utilized in the creation of a solo performance and dance film, contributing to the fields of dance studies and LGBTQ+ studies. Funds will support the dissemination of these artistic works through screenings, performances, and academic presentations.
This research project is a vital component of my MFA thesis, which aims to shed light on the evolving cultural and social landscape of China through the lens of dance and queerness. By exploring the experiences and artistic expressions of queer Chinese artists, I hope to contribute to a deeper understanding of identity, culture, and movement practices within the global dance community.

I am deeply committed to the success of this project and its potential to enrich both academic scholarship and artistic practice. Your support will play a crucial role in realizing this vision and advancing our understanding of queerness and dance in the global Chinese community.

Thank you for considering my funding request. I am eager to embark on this research journey and look forward to the opportunity to share its findings with the broader academic and artistic communities.

Sincerely,
Tim Tsang
https://www.instagram.com/waikitnotwhitekid/
  • Shanghai, China
  • Taipei, Taiwan
  • Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Hong Kong
  • Singapore