Who is Emara Vonae’ ?
Emara Vonae’ Neymour Jackson, a St. Louis-born artist, showcases a career that transcends geographical boundaries, leaving an indelible mark both nationally and internationally. From the vibrant streets of Los Angeles to the cultural hubs of Kansas City, and even across the seas to Paris and Marseille, France, Emara's artistic journey knows no bounds.
As a multifaceted artist, Emara's work spans dance, vocals, acting, filmmaking, and creative direction. She is the visionary behind Our Arch Temple, an experimental research practice exploring the body as home and the mover as a resident safe movement spaces she curates. Through multimedia expressions and performative investigations, Emara delves deep into the consciousness of movement within Afro-diasporic contexts, sculpting narratives and physical collage art that resonate on a global scale.
Her choreography explores the victories and traumas of the Black Femme Body, mobilizing itself through black social dance and grooves while exploring the presence of black dance in spaces dominated by white bodies. Emara's portfolio includes a range of impactful works, such as (SOAP) Sensations of Archived Pain (2019), Ensomina’s KIKI: Nocturne (2019), and Cyborgs (2018).
Emara's recent film work includes HairyScaryLady (2019), KIKI (2018), The Bluest Eye (2019), and Don’t Leave Me Now, showcasing her versatility as a filmmaker and storyteller.
Throughout her career, Emara has graced stages and screens, performing and touring for artists including Solange Ferguson Knowles, Moses Sumney, Gerrard, and Kelly, Dimitri Chamblas, Nina Flagg, and Chris Emile, among others.
Emara's artistic odyssey has earned her accolades, including The Dance Saint Louis; Dance Career Award (2016), and recognition as a finalist of the Seoul International Dance Competition (2019).
Emara Neymour Jackson's commitment to amplifying voices within the black community and fostering dialogue through her art remains unwavering, making her a transformative force in the global artistic landscape.
Photo Credit : Kenny Photo