LIISA JAAKONAHO
• Lecturer in Dance Pedagogy
(Theatre Academy, University of the Arts Helsinki, 2019 onwards) • Doctoral researcher (Theatre Academy, University of the Arts Helsinki, 2015 onwards) • Master of Arts (Goldsmiths, University of London, 2007) I'm an interdisciplinary professional of performing arts, arts pedagogy and mental health work, based in Helsinki, Finland. I am currently working full-time as a Lecturer in Dance Pedagogy at The Theatre Academy of the University of the Arts Helsinki. I am also working on my doctoral research project, in which I investigate ethical questions stemming from my work as a dance pedagogue in disability services. As a pedagogue I specialize in methods of movement improvisation and somatics, performance art, embodiment, therapeutic interaction, special education in the arts, and disability studies. In my pedagogic work I apply my skills flexibly, taking into account individual needs, capacities and limitations, as well as dynamics of the group and organization. I am inspired by critical pedagogy, embodiment, and experiential learning. As a researcher I am particularly interested in questions of diversity and inclusion; challenging fixed categories, dichotomies, and ableist practices. I am also drawn to artistic work that takes place outside traditional art contexts. Through artistic research I aim to make the complexities and potentials of this kind of work visible. |