Throughout the year the Kamloops Arts Council profiles a different member or donor, so that you can get to know the diverse and talented community that makes up the KAC. This month we feature Tammy Morrison.
How long have you been involved with the Kamloops Arts Council?
“I have been involved with the Kamloops Arts Council for 9 years.”
Why did you get involved?
“As a member and leader of a local performing bellydance troupe I felt being involved with the Arts Council would allow me to stay connected with and be a part of the diverse artistic offerings available in our community. It also offers me the opportunity to give focused and current feedback on how we can all help make the arts community stronger here in Kamloops.”
Tell us about your artwork:
“Mozaik Fusion Bellydance performs Tribal Fusion bellydance. It’s a relatively new form of bellydance that came to life in the early 1990’s in San Francisco and is coined a North American style of bellydance. It combines elements from Traditional and Cabaret bellydance with movements from American Tribal Style (ATS), Hip Hop, Indian Classical Dance Forms (Odissi and Kathak) and any other dance form from which we find inspiration. Our intention is to convey the strength of women celebrating their connection with each other and our audience; to empower women to express their strength and femininity.”
What are you looking forward to this upcoming year? A special show or project you’re working on?
“I teach Beginner, Advanced Beginner and Intermediate/Advanced bellydance classes at different studios in town. During the summer months, I use the time to re-charge and prepare for these upcoming Fall and Winter sessions. So, I’m looking forward to meeting and connecting with all the new students that have signed up for classes that begin in September.
Each December my troupe and I organize a large female-only Hafla (party) held at St Andrews on The Square. This is a time for women and children to gather, take in the entertainment, socialize and peruse exclusive vendors. Proceeds from the event go toward animal rescue organizations. All the information can be found on our FB pages:
~ Tribal Fusion Bellydance with Tammy (classes)
~ Mozaik Fusion Bellydance (troupe performances/events)
or by contacting me at: [email protected]”
Why is it important to support the arts?
“Anything we can do to help enrich our culture and grow our arts community adds an excellent balance to the outdoor recreation and natural beauty our city provides. It’s also important to allow us to attract like-minded individuals to the region, bringing with them new ideas which will allow for the continuous growth of our arts culture.”
What would you say to someone who’s considering becoming a member with the Kamloops Arts Council?
“The concept of ‘paying it forward’ has really been a focus the last few years and we should all look to leave our community in a better and stronger state than when we arrived. Being a member of the Arts Council will be a fulfilling experience where you will get to see, hear and feel the outcomes of your efforts.”
Photo credits: Whitewash Photography (Tracey Ratzlaff)
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