ON THE COVER /

This behind-the-scenes look at the photoshoot for the School of Dance’s “Latinx Heritage Celebration” concert from Fall 2025 features dancers from the work “Mamonas” by choreographer Vinicius Lima, a ballet in celebration of the music and talent of Brazilian Rock Band “Mamonas Assassinas.” The concert, directed by Daniel Clifton, featured four works that explored the rich history of Chicano Awareness at the University of Utah.

Dancers: Top Row From L-R (hats): Lena Robinson, Autumn Ryskoski, Valentina Meija, Kyra Woodall, Hannah Leonard, Esmee Dieckman, Bottom Row From L-R (skirts): Kaidence Vance, Charlotte Parry, Marlie Lavine, Manami Kawai.

The artists at the University of Utah are made of tenacious grit in addition to talent, determination, and vision. So often, what we share with the world are our finished works. Complete. Polished. Powerful. 

 What we appreciate about this publication, however, is that it gives a glimpse into the making, the behind-the-scenes, the love and care that goes into creating something out of nothing — whether a finished work or knowledge to be shared. We pull back the veil on our studios and classrooms to show how our spaces combined with our specialties and spirit become sway. 

 Because that — the manifesting and sharing of something new — is an act of courage, and one that can be mysterious to those of who don’t regularly engage in those processes. 

See, facing a blank canvas, an empty theatre, a quiet concert hall, a room full of eager learners, or sheet music with lines but no notes are not endeavors for the faint of heart. They’re for the visionaries, the problem-solvers, the recorders of history, and the creators of culture. 

 Getting work ready for the world can be messy and challenging, but it’s the heart and soul of our work that takes us from inspiration to presentation. It’s where and when the magic happens. And it’s our gift to you to share these vulnerable moments of generating and sharing the knowledge that makes the University of Utah College of Fine Arts a rich incubator of excellence and influence. 

 We hope you enjoy.