A moment with Erica Murphy (of SELKIE)
Why did you choose PortFringe this year? I chose PortFringe this year because, like many others, I found myself constantly in fight or flight this last year. I wanted to work the creative juices and wasn’t sure where to start. I saw PortFringe as an opportunity use the support of a good deadline and welcoming community to hop back into things! PortFringe has reminded me to stay hungry and continue to find and work with people who fuel my artistic fires. It takes a village, and we will make it through!
How was your PortFringe show born? I grew up loving the lore of selkies and seal-folks, and this year I’ve found a lot of solace in spending time by the ocean in all seasons. Starting this last fall, my friend Zoé Goriely and I would send each other a little bit of something we were working on once a week. Selkie grew out of this slow stream of consciousness and my constant questioning of what does it mean to find home in your own body. It was also a great excuse to wander by the ocean! I wanted to explore the liminal space between worlds, between land and sea, and how to make a decision when your heart is torn.
What have you learned as an artist during the last year of pandemic times? I’ve learned to take myself less seriously and take my dreams more seriously. Life is short, and turns out constraints can make for a surprising and exciting artistic experience! Working on trusting my gut and welcoming the unknown.
Why is FRINGE important? FRINGE is important because it gives artists a place and time to truly explore, to throw the art pasta at the wall and feel what really sticks. It’s a chance to explore something you normally wouldn’t, thereby potentially opening a door to something you maybe never knew was even there! This kind of potential energy is where great things begin!
It’s PortFringe’s 10th Birthday! What do you remember or miss about being ten years old?
I miss chasing down the neighborhood ice cream truck and savoring a terrifying Spongebob Squarepants orange creamsicle push-pop.
Have you checked out the other PF21 show listings? Pick one you’re excited to see or learn more about, and tell us why! I am so excited by the variety and brilliance of all the PF21 shows and artists!! Beyond thrilled to be billed with Russell Kaback and Ella Mock, I’m so inspired by their wit and artistry. I’m super pumped to see The Reveal by Catherine Siller. Movement, breaking down gender reveal parties, celebrating nonconformity? Sign me up!
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