Artist Statement:I see myself as an intelligent dancer who brings her whole self to the studio and her dancing. I view dance as a vehicle for change, understanding, and emotion. I think dance, and the arts, are integral to both participating in and appreciating the lives we lead. My passion for politics and activism has led me to view the arts as a vital tool for change by exposing audiences to other experiences and perspectives.Bio:An Atlanta, GA native, Grace grew up dancing at Atlanta Ballet. There, she found a passion for dance that led her to summer training with Boston Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre, and Texas Ballet Theatre. Favorite performances include "Swan Queen" in Swan Lake, Elizabeth Gillaspy’s Etudes and Impressions, and the "Fairy of Generosity" from Sleeping Beauty. Grace is pursuing her B.F.A. in Ballet, B.A. in Political Science, and Pilates teaching certificate at Texas Christian University where she has been awarded the Nordan Dance Scholarship, Dance Scholarship, Fine Arts Achievement Scholarship, and Faculty Scholarship, and is on the Dean’s List. She enjoys serving her community through leadership in the Alpha Chapter of the Chi Tau Epsilon Honor Society, participating in the Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society, and developing her creative skills through photography and graphic design projects.Teaching Philosophy:I envision myself in the studio as both a peer and a leader. I strive to communicate to students that while I might have a wider and deeper knowledge of ballet and technique, their input and expression is equally valued and encouraged. I aim to be a trusted and confident person in their lives, and to prepare them in a dance class to pursue dance, if they wish, but most importantly, to have useful and positive body knowledge. I hope every student gains a deeper understanding of ballet and dance from my class, as well as seeing how studying dance can enrich their life outside of the studio. I hope my classroom is a space where students feel included by dance, not excluded. I seek to help students understand their own bodies, their limits and where they can achieve more, in a safe and nonjudgmental space. Success in teaching to me means that my students feel welcomed in class, are actively participating in the learning process, and feel successful in dance.