Meet Beláxis Buil: Interdisciplinary Visual/Performance Artist/ Choreographer/Curator/Writer/Scholar/Human Rights Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Beláxis Buil and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Beláxis, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
I’ve learned so many lessons during the course of my career. Out of very learned lesson I came out a lot more grounded in who I am. And the best part of each lesson resulted in learning to trust myself. It may sound a bit cliche to recite this phrase but for those of us who are deeply connected to our calling, trusting yourself during the journey is the best approach to building one’s character and developing a wisdom that will guide you to your calling. I have also learned that not everyone wants to hear the “truth”. Learning how to “speak to the choir” and being diplomatic are necessary skills. The latter are skills one should definitely learn early in their careers.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
My career is colorful. I enjoy every aspect of being an artist, a scholar, a mother, an innovator and producer. Each part of my identity (in my career) lives happily invested during the period of time required to be in isolation, to think clearly, contemplate, plan, organize and finally, materialize the idea. It is magical. I especially love the time I spend alone during the Incubation period. But, it gives me great pleasure when its complete and out in the open. I can invite the community to be a part of my work- whether the community is watching, reading the work, or participating in the actual work. I believe in the word community. Having others be a part of my work is satisfying. It means being abundant and generous with one another. Inviting the community to step into their role is welcoming; its inviting them to get to know you and vice a versa. There is something intimate about that. It’s inclusive. I believe in the power to mobilize and empower people for something extraordinary through a creative experience everyone can experience/live simultaneously.  This is where I am at in my life.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I had a visitor pop up in Miami for the first time I would take him/ her straight to a floral shop for a bouquet of flowers (hand selected  by moi!). I found a floral shop off Biscayne Boulevard with an outstanding selection of flora. Then I would drive him/her out to the Everglades. I love open spaces, isolation, silence, stillness and old beauty.  I would want to share such tender moments with just one other person-not a group. I wonder who that lucky friend will be? 

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Hmmmm, well, quite honestly I am grateful to the universe. Along my journey I have met a few people (very few) who have been encouraging. My first dance professor in college, Dr. Diane Brownholtz was really the one person who took the time to know me best. She appreciated my originality and extended multiple opportunities for me to develop who I was as an artist. She believed in me and respected who I was. Respect is such a lovely gift- especially when it comes from a mentor. And finding a mentor during the first stages of one’s career can rapidly peel off layers of ignorance. Dr. Brownholtz opened my eyes to see the work ahead. She was my “good witch” that set me up on my “Yellow Brick Road”. I was as naive and innocent as Dorothy. In time I found my footing and wisdom. I thank Dr. Brownholtz for being an amazing dance mother. She was god sent.

Website: WWW.BelaxisBuil.org WWW.UNAFRAID.net
Instagram: Belaxis_Buil Belaxis_Buil2
Linkedin: Beláxis Buil
Youtube: UNAFRAID & Belaxis Buil
Other: Think you are great for taking the time to get to know every candidate in SHOUT-OUT

Image Credits
All Photos courtesy the artist. Black and white headshot, Tommy Chung