Dej

Dej is a multidisciplinary artist from Chicago, Illinois. With a blended love for dance/choreography, photography, and storytelling, Dej creates works molded from individuality, authenticity, and the question “why?” As a Black woman, Dej is heavily influenced by her culture and personal experiences. It is through these influences that she has shaped her creative process of experience first, question second, process third, and conversation last. 

 

In 2021, Dej released her first dance film STYLES giving appreciation to specific genres of dance that receive minimal recognition in Western society. She also choreographed and performed in George Ellzey’s film titled SWITCHIN’ which was featured in the Black Harvest Film Festival and DePaul Premiere Festival. In 2022, Dej performed in Chicago Dancemakers Forum’s ELEVATE showcase in Praise Mother by Aaliyah Christina and released her second dance film  Nov. 16. The following year, Dej performed in several projects including ABORT by Kierah King, Fly Honeys SPRUNG showcase, and she was the lead choreographer for Perceptions Theatre’s production Panther Women: An Army For The Liberation by India Nicole Burton. Currently, Dej is still working with Aaliyah Christina for Praise Mother’s continued development while also creating her own future projects. 

 

Through her past and present works of artistry, Dej continues to remain true to her mission of challenging perceptions, awakening audiences to new ideals, and sparking conversations. She is a passionate and dedicated artist who is steadily evolving and honing in on her craft.