BOLD is excited to put a spotlight on incredible black women and their stories of representation. Ever I Saw Your Face highlights the beauty and importance of representation in art with three simple questions. It captures how representation not only inspires us to dream, but moves us internally and works to re-humanize us as black women.
Meet Aurelia Michael born and raised in the Bronx, New York, where she began her artistic training at the Dance Theatre of Harlem. She continued studying dance throughout college, earning Dance and Business Management degrees from the University of Maryland, College Park, as well as attending the Fashion Institute of Technology for a Certification in Image Consulting. Jumping right into the professional dance world after college, her credits include The Hunger Games Mocking Jay, Netflix, GAP, Smirnoff, BET's Black Girls Rock with Janelle Monae, The Today Show, and the international tour “Every Little Step”. In 2018, Aurelia also ventured into the world of musical theater, and her credits now include Legally Blonde: The Musical, Ghost: The Musical, In The Heights, and the Original Broadway Cast of SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical. Since 2011, Aurelia has been the Founder and Lead Coach for Aurelia Michael Living, a life coaching, image consulting and home organization focused company. She has helped an array of individuals ranging from teens to seniors by way of private coaching, group virtual sessions, and seminars. Aurelia is an artist who prides herself on valuing versatility, professionalism, and genuine respect for all facets of the arts. She loves to help people of all ages pursue their dreams and accomplish their goals. Aurelia currently resides in the Los Angeles area, where she is also focused on her career in TV & Film and Voice Over.
1. When was the first time you saw yourself in art and it changed you?
The first time I truly saw myself in art was in 2005 when I attended Monsters of Hip Hop in Florida. I saw Ebone Johnson aka Vanity Zo dance.
2. Tell us more about your time at the dance conference and Ms. Ebone Johnson.
She danced to “Music Makes Me Lose Control” by Missy Elliott. I had never seen a technically trained dancer get down and dance so funky and full of life. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her. She had on a dope Adidas track suit, big ole bamboo earrings, and nails I was always too afraid to rock because of my college dance program.
3. Why does representation matter to you?
Representation matters to me because I recognize how much it didn’t matter to others growing up. How I was typed and typed out of things before my talent even had the ability to shine. I not only want people to feel represented, I want people to truly feel SEEN. And once finally seen, heard and understood
Thanks Aurelia for sharing your story and the story of a dance legend who has opened doors for so many!
We want to know the first time you saw your face and how it changed you.
Share your story of representation using the hashtag #boldrepresentation and tag us @iamaboldwoman.