Azziri (Ah-zeer-ee) Love joins this interview to discuss their journey in the world of African dance whilst pursuing a creative career.
A Journey With Movement
Azziri has always held a background in several dance styles, including jazz and pointe, but stepped away from dance around the time of COVID. In 2019, however, they attended a summer camp in Oakland where a mentor introduced them to African dance. By 2022, they had begun exploring the practice more seriously.
For Azziri, African dance offers something beyond choreography and technique. It’s a form of freedom and release, providing an opportunity to connect with others, explore culture, and express themselves.
No, I’m not African, yet it means so much to me. It’s liberating. The people, connections, and spirit of it all is incredibly moving. I realized and experienced so many beautiful types of blackness. I honestly feel that I’d die without this.
They also see dance as a way to connect with their roots as part of the global African diaspora.
It really helps me to make friends but also tap into an interesting culture. As an African American, I tap into and connect with my roots as a global diaspora, and I gain a better sense of self through this.
Their involvement has even extended into competitive dance conferences, where they attend and compete. It’s another side of the dance community, bringing together people through shared cultural practices and experiences. Who knew there was a whole competitive lane to explore?
For anyone interested in getting started in Atlanta, Azziri recommends Ball Ethnic in East Point, Manga African Dance, particularly for beginners, and Wantinara Inc. As they point out, the local community is deeper than you might expect.
Behind the Lens
Dance isn’t Azziri’s only creative outlet. They also describe themselves as a documentarian, combining photography with an interest in history and the backgrounds of other people.
My friend actually inspired that label. I mix photography with a passion for learning history and the backgrounds of others, and fusing this cultural knowledge with photo media.
That interest in accurately representing people is central to how they approach their work.
I want people to see things how I see them in the moment. I love accurately capturing others and ensuring they’re portrayed accurately.
One of their recent projects was a five-minute interview connected to a college thesis, bringing together history, reflection, and newer perspectives. Describing the concept as a time weaver, they explore the relationship between the past, present, and future, particularly through the embodiment of black liberation in house music.
Always Exploring
Outside of their projects, Azziri is balancing the usual responsibilities of everyday life while finding time to pursue different interests. Whether it’s continuing their dance practice, playing guitar, or experimenting with newer hobbies like face painting, there’s an ongoing willingness to try something different.
With nearly eight years of guitar experience, music remains another important part of their creative life. One of their goals is to release more music, potentially an album before the end of the year. They also hope to use their art to connect with more like-minded people. And, as they put it, sometimes the goal is simply to exist.
Their personal style is another part of how they express themselves. When asked about their approach to fashion, Azziri’s response was that they aspire to dress “as fruity as possible.” Their queerness is another part of that expression, reflecting a desire to exist authentically and explore different ways of presenting themselves.
A Conversation with Azziri
It’s always nice to meet younger creatives who are finding different ways to engage with their interests while navigating everything else life brings along. I enjoyed learning about Azziri’s experiences and discovering another side of Atlanta’s creative community through dance.
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