artist statement

My work is often oriented around the human experience. I am fascinated with how people act, think and treat each other. I believe self-awareness is so complex with its many layers in the heart, mind, soul and body we could spend many lifetimes exploring the universe that lives inside of us. I will always be fascinated with how people are trying to understand and relate to one another, often through trials of misunderstanding. I enjoy putting the microscope down to any of these displays of being and taking a look. I consider both “dance” and pedestrian movement material for choreography and class content to present interactions that are common, shared and meaningful because they are the moments that build our lives.

As a teacher it is my goal to offer students a diverse way of moving by offering not only technique, but partnering, theater and performance opportunities. I believe in opening up the idea of what dance is, working towards an inclusive model that incorporates a wide variety of movement including exploring and celebrating movement that is discovered from the students own unique vocabulary.

I strive to use dance as a way of building connection, breaking down social barriers and not only considering but appreciating other people’s perspectives. I believe everyone is capable of dance and movement in a relevant way regardless of physical ability. My work lies in the basics of humanity- eye-contact, meaningful interactions and physical expression; it is propelled by the question of “How will dance and performance look in a more virtual world?” As we move forward technologically, I embrace the possibility of intertwining the unchanging and evolving parts of ourselves. I have the desire to tap into the heart and soul of being human, the part we recognize when we are truly with one another. I believe in welcoming the future while maintaining a soulful sense of self; it is my hope that the work we create together leaves audiences, students and performers feeling a sense of curiosity, familiarity and deep connection.

About

bio

Jordan Kriston grew up in Phoenix, Arizona and holds a BFA in Dance Performance from Arizona State University. She grew up playing team sports, swimming, and spending time outdoors. Jordan fell in love with dance as a teen after discovering it integrated her passions physicality and the arts. In 2006 Jordan moved to NY to chase the dream and spent all her time taking class, auditioning and working dance gigs. Jordan became a full-time dancer with both H.T. Chen & Dancers and Douglas Dunn & Dancers during her time in New York. In 2010 Jordan was hired full-time by Pilobolus Dance Theater of Connecticut. There she had the wonderful experience of being a co-collaborator on more than a dozen new pieces, working with other amazing highly-acclaimed artists and traveled the world teaching master-classes and performing. Jordan served as a full-time Dancer with Pilobolus for seven years and continues to be involved as a Masterclass Educator where she teaches the partnering aesthetic and philosophy of the company. Jordan has been a Masterclass instructor on Partnering for California State University Summer Arts program for 3 consecutive years starting in 2018. She is a Dance Instructor/Choreographer at Polaris Dance Theater and has performed with Portland-based dance artists Ela Fala Dance Collective, Push/FOLD and Graham Cole. She has presented her own choreography through Polaris Dance Theater, Coho Productions, and N.E.W. Expressive Works as an Artist in Residence. Jordan volunteers with White Bird Dance to bring outstanding dance performances to Portland residents. She lives in Portland, OR with her partner Zach and dog Charlie, and draws inspiration from nature, spending time with loved ones, meditation, reading & writing and constantly being open to new experiences. 

Curriculum Vitae