This week’s profile was nominated by her friend, Michelle, who I interviewed last week. Karen Merchant runs a wonderful blog over on Tumblr called The Brush of Intention. Make sure you check it out and read below to learn more about Karen!
When did you start doing ballet as an adult?
I started in January 2013.
Did you ever take lessons as a kid?
Nope. Absolutely no dance background.
Why did you decide to take ballet as an adult?
I was looking for a new hobby and came across a dance studio that offers an 8-week BASICS Beginners workshop so I figured, why not?
Where do you take classes?
I take classes at the Contemporary School of Ballet Dallas.
What is your favorite part about ballet?
Every time I am at class, I am able to step outside my own busy/stressful life and focus on my own strength, grace, form and flexibility. Its wonderful!
What is your least favorite part?
I hate that class ends after 1.5 hours. I wish I could dance all day long!
Who/What is your ballet inspiration?
I suppose it would be my instructors-they are amazing!
What motivates you to keep dancing?
The dream of dancing en pointe. Its the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. I also want to learn how to move my body to music and really tell a story; convey an emotion. I want to take what I am feeling-anger, sadness, happiness, hope and create real art.
Do you take any other dance classes?
Just ballet. I’ve considered taking modern and/or ballroom dancing, but I really just want to focus on only ballet right now.
What are your hobbies outside of ballet?
I adore yoga as it enables me to find my strength and stability. Sometimes I even call it my “ballet homework”. I also like to run long distances (just completed my first half marathon last year!)
What advice would you like to give to those who want to start ballet or have just started?
Ballet takes a lot of patience, especially as an adult beginner, but if you love it, then stick to it! You will see improvement with time, I already have!
