Catherine Cheng

Catherine Zichun Cheng is a performer, creator, and arts administrator. With a background in Performance Studies and Economics, she has had the opportunity to delve into both the creative and logistical sides of the art world. Through this diverse experience, Catherine has developed a distinctive perspective on human connections, which fuels her fascination with interpersonal relationships. She uses her dancing body as a means to investigate and express cultural and socio-political systems. Her research interests are never limited but often include dance studies, cultural studies, international relations, performance of everyday life, and more recently, correspondence.

Title of Capstone Project

CorResponDance– Correspondence with self and surroundings: tracking changes through happenings

Description of Capstone Project

CorResponDance is a deeply personal and introspective exploration of the complex nature of relationships and their impact on people’s lives. Catherine seeks to delve into the intricacies of interpersonal connections, as well as the relationship between the present and past self. The video containing dance, correspondence, and personal objects is a continuous dialogue between the nuances of life's ups and downs - the moments of joy and sorrow, presence and absence, and the fleeting nature of happiness. Catherine is interested in examining the fragility that lies beneath the surface of seemingly composed social shells, containing sealed memories, traumas, and moments of collapse that one may not be ready to confront. She hopes to take her audience on a journey of self-discovery and exploration, providing insightful glimpses into the complexities of human emotions and experiences.

What Inspired Your Project?

Correspondence practice during performative writing class, and Ray Johnson and his New York Correspondence School.