When it comes to art, Intro to 3-D Art and Ceramics teacher Jessica Baide is interested in one form that is different from the rest of her work: swing dancing.

   “Dancing allows me to be creative, expressive, and social,” Baide said. “As an artist and an art teacher, dancing is an entirely different form of art for me. Dancing is a physical expression of joy for me. When I’m dancing I turn off my inner mental dialogue and I’m able to be present in the music with my partner.”

  Baide’s interest in swing dancing can be seen in different ways throughout the rest of her artwork.

  “You can definitely see how dancing influences her ceramics,” Kathryn Ternik, a student of Baide, said. “The pieces she shows us in class often have dress and dance-like movement and form.”

  Along with swing dancing being another way for Baide to be expressive, she also understands the social benefits dancing can have on a person.

  “I’ve become much more social as I have learned the nuances of leading and following.” Baide said. “Through dance I’ve met all of my closest friends and become part of an international network of vintage swing dancers. I can show up in nearly any city and connect with dancers.”

  Swing dancing has also connected Baide to the culture of a previous time, when swing dancing was at its popularity peak.

  “I’ve learned an awful lot about vintage hair styles and trends,” Baide said. “I would be entirely different if I had not discovered dance five years ago.”

  The influence dancing has had on Baide has led her to recommend it to others because of the social connections they will make as a result.

  “I would absolutely recommend learning to dance to absolutely everyone,” Baide said. “Your interpersonal interactions will grow. You will meet wonderful people and learn about yourself in the process.” Story by Hayden Sisemore. Photo contributed.