![Heather Samuelson, co-coordinator of Stephen F. Austin State University’s dance program, presented her poster titled “Expression of the Forbidden: Creating dance that explores eating disorders and self-mutilation” at the Twelfth International Conference on the Arts in Society in Paris, France.](http://everythingnac.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/s.jpeg)
Heather Samuelson, co-coordinator of Stephen F. Austin State University’s dance program, presented her poster titled “Expression of the Forbidden: Creating dance that explores eating disorders and self-mutilation” at the Twelfth International Conference on the Arts in Society in Paris, France.
Samuelson’s poster presentation, “Expression of the Forbidden: Creating dance that explores eating disorders and self-mutilation,” is based on a dance she choreographed titled “M.E.,” which depicts eating disorders and self-mutilation.
The poster touched on various conference themes, including social, political and community agendas in the arts, gestures that matter, arts as activism, arts and disabilities, and arts, well-being and healing.
“The poster presentation brought to light several societal issues such as eating disorders, cutting and mental instability that affect many people,” Samuelson said. “By incorporating shared gestures with the issues presented, ‘M.E.’ promotes healing and awareness and opens the lines of expression and communication.”
![Haley Jameson, co-coordinator of Stephen F. Austin State University’s dance program, presented her poster titled “Teaching Social Responsibility Through Dance Appreciation" at the Twelfth International Conference on the Arts in Society in Paris, France.](http://everythingnac.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/j.jpeg)
Haley Jameson, co-coordinator of Stephen F. Austin State University’s dance program, presented her poster titled “Teaching Social Responsibility Through Dance Appreciation” at the Twelfth International Conference on the Arts in Society in Paris, France.
“We look at dance and religion, politics, gender, race, nationality, ethnicity and ability,” Jameson said. “Through these lenses, we study how dance is used as an expression of these areas and how dance can be used to influence or effect social change.”
This conference was Samuelson’s first international presentation, which she describes as humbling and a great opportunity to connect with artists from around the world.
![While in France, Samuelson, left, and Jameson had the opportunity to tour historical landmarks related to their field of study, including the Palace of Versailles.](http://everythingnac.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/v.jpeg)
While in France, Samuelson, left, and Jameson had the opportunity to tour historical landmarks related to their field of study, including the Palace of Versailles.
Jameson agreed the conference was a tremendous opportunity.
“We were honored to represent SFA and the U.S. at this diverse conference for all the arts,” Jameson said. “I enjoyed participating in workshops and listening to presentations that enriched me as a professional in my field and also as a professor.”
During the conference, Samuelson and Jameson toured the Palace of Versailles and Palais Garnier, which is regarded as the birthplace of ballet.
“I can’t explain the feeling I experienced standing in the most historic building directly related to my profession,” Samuelson said. “Even now when I think about it, that feeling comes back. I can officially say, ‘I was there, and I danced … down a corridor!’”