Copycats in circus
Recently, I had a deeply upsetting experience that highlighted a persistent issue within circus and the arts. Quite bluntly, the lack of integrity, respect for artists’ work and safe work practises. With the rise of quick access of people documenting on social media; people take, copy and steal. Supposedly blurring the lines between inspiration and plagiarism. However, on this instance this happened in real life. After attending my tippy/rotating hoop workshop—having never tried it before—someone has decided to host their own workshop and even using an image from my workshop. This situation has left me feeling frustrated and vex, particularly as a Black and disabled artist navigating a predominantly white industry. Whilst this person most probably would’ve done this whatever my identity, this is ever so common for disabled and black artists.
It’s disheartening to see how easily some individuals exploit the knowledge and creativity of artists especially marginalised artists without giving credit where it’s due. Also, physical safety is at stake when someone who is not fully informed attempts to teach others. Circus is DANGEROUS! Whatever equipment we use demands specific knowledge that aren't acquired in a single workshop.And replication will be putting the person and students at significant risk. Which is a massive consequence of exploiting someone else’s work.
This is not just about a workshop; it’s about the systemic issues of privilege and exploitation in circus and arts. Circus, use to be a place for the ‘marginalised’ and now when i’m gigging i’m expected to either lean into stereotypical blackness or assimilate to Eurocentric beauty and performance styles. When someone with more privilege profits from the labour of those who are historically marginalised, it perpetuates a cycle that stifles diversity and authenticity in our creative spaces. And i’m not saying this participant and now workshop leader is doing these things this with this intent. They most probably thought ‘how cool!’ and saw an opportunity.
Why is it acceptable for someone to take another artist’s work?
Why is it acceptable for someone to take another artist’s work, especially when that artist is part of a marginalised group?
We must challenge this behavior and hold each other accountable?
So, a gentle reminder:
Safety for oneself and others
Acknowledge and Credit artists/companies
Be transparent in your further actions
Be authentic
and to be blunt,regardless of identity it’s 2024 don’t copy or steal from me or my friends!
Tippy/Rotating hoop artist who are awesome:
Blaze Tarsha
Rachel Mayes
Amanda Violet
Kirby Myers
Diana Gonzalez
Amy Nash