Azelle Miró Chang
dancer . artist . model
About Me
I was born in the vibrantly bustling city of Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and was raised in Portland, Oregon. Throughout my life, my family and I strive to maintain and uphold a cultural connection to my heritage. I hold pride in presenting myself authentically through my everyday and artistic endeavors. I began dancing at the age of 3 with The Portland Ballet and grew up in a Waldorf education system which equally emphasizes social, artistic, and academic growth. As a result of this upbringing in an arts-based community, I have cultivated an intense passion for art of all mediums—from drawing and painting, sewing, embroidery, and jewelry-making, to graphic design, cello and saxophone-playing. I began my collegiate career at the University of Arizona's School of Dance in 2019, and will be graduating this Spring with a BFA in Dance and a minor in Gender & Women's Studies. With an ever-growing appreciation for the complexity and diversity of the human experience, I strive to incorporate the personal growth and experiences I've encountered at school into my art and everyday life.
After graduating, I am ecstatic (and still in a bit of disbelief) to move to Denver, Colorado, to dance with WonderBound Dance Company!
My Artistic Vision & Goals
At the heart of my artistic vision is a desire to push the boundaries of dance and create artistic experiences that are innovative, intentional, and emotionally resonant for all who are involved. I believe that we live in a society that often lacks compassion and intention, especially for those who are different from ourselves. Yet there is so much power in difference. I contend that art—as a universal language of expression—has the power to evoke more empathy in us all. As an Asian-American artist, I've grown to understand that our differences are our greatest assets; our greatest tool for creativity; for building worlds and breaking them down; for exploring not only how to uplift others, but also how I find my own place in this wild world
—how I can take up the space I deserve and be proud doing it!
As a dancer, partner-work is my favorite aspect of this art form because of its inherent foundation in human connection. Partnering in dance allows me to explore deep connections with others while striving to maintain authenticity in who I am. I draw inspiration from my own experiences, emotions, and education, as well as from nature, loved ones, and the wild world around me. My movement quality is marked by a unique blend of athleticism, fluidity, and grace—a kind of soft strength. I love to tell powerful stories and connect through movement with fellow collaborators and audiences in ways that are thoughtful, emotional, and fulfilling.
I strongly believe that art is meant to say something. Art can be a catalyst for change in the best ways possible.
