Meet Isabel Blackburn | Dancer, Choreographer, and Personal Trainer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Isabel Blackburn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Isabel, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Growing up, I did not intend on pursuing career in dance. I really didn’t know that was an option or a sustainable way to live. As much as I loved to dance and create, it was presented as a hobby, not a career. As more opportunities came my way and I started to be surrounded by individuals solely pursuing dance, I began to see the ways in which it could prove to be a lifestyle and career. Now that I have been working in the industry for several years, I not only love that I get to do what I love everyday, but I’ve also enjoyed being a part of the community and creating with others. As rewarding as being an artist is, it is also so special that I now get to share and create with other talented individuals that share the same love and passion.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work truly is a blend of all the artists and creators that have inspired me over the years. I have had the ability to train under some amazing choreographers and dancers, so my choreography is a blend of multiple styles and different pockets. I am still fine tuning my craft which each piece of work, and I’m still growing and learning from others that inspire me.
Being an artist, as rewarding as it is, comes with its challenges. There will always be a voice internally, but also from outside sources, telling you your work isn’t up to par, that it’s too predictable or abstract. The lack of validation can also be challenging- yet that is part of the process. As I continue to create more and expand the breadth of my work, I am learning to trust myself more and tune the negativity out. I feel that I am able to take more risks, whether it’s with my own freestyle or choreography for somebody else, and I can play more with movement.
One major factor that plays into being successful in this industry, but in others as well, is discipline and hard work. It requires long days and nights, training when you feel like you have nothing left to give, showing up and always being ready. In both choreography and dance, there will be times when it feels like there’s no inspiration, when your body is exhausted, when you don’t know what the job or the outcome will look like. These situations always seem to contribute to the process and the at the end of each job, I feel that I am thankful for the challenges because they make the work more authentic.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
There are so many fun spots in Atlanta. I really love the Beltline- the spots to eat and drink on the Beltline are really fun, but I actually really enjoy just walking or running on the trail. I also enjoy spending time at Piedmont Park- it has a great view of the skyline and lots of different trails. Buckhead has many unique spots as well!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a shoutout to my mom and dad. They always encouraged me to be the best at whatever I do- they constantly showed me the value of work hard and treating others with kindness. Both of them have inspired me so much and I can’t thank them enough for the countless ways they have been so supportive and encouraging over the years.

Instagram: @isabel.grace.b

Image Credits
Jordan Malixi
Kat Goduco
Gabby Fenimore
Young-Jae Kim