Meet Jose Jose Arrieta Cuesta

We recently connected with Jose Jose Arrieta Cuesta and have shared our conversation below.

Jose Jose, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?

I consider myself “Un Inquieto,” which translates to being unsettled, as my family would call me. My mind tends to jump from one passion to another in short periods. I had the privilege of growing up in a playful environment where I developed friendships and explored various hobbies throughout my childhood. This kept my mind eager for the next spark that would guide me onto a new pathway.

As I began to nurture my artistry through acting, performance, and craft-making experiences, I eventually discovered my niches, particularly in reading—especially within the history genre. I also enjoy the diverse music I was fortunate enough to grow up with and attend works from various companies, including Pan-African artists. I have had the pleasure of working with organizations that allow me to create, generate, and collaborate on projects that align with my expertise, which has challenged and expanded my creativity.

Creativity can flow naturally when you’re in the right mindset, but it requires nurturing.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I am a professional dancer and choreographer passionate about creating and performing work that deeply connects with audiences. Over the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with renowned companies and theaters, including Diavolo Architecture in Motion, Contra-Tiempo Activist Dance Theater, the Alley Theater in Houston for the *Torera* play, and Cara Mía Theater in Dallas. Additionally, I’ve explored works rooted in African dance movements, such as the Yoruba tradition of the Orishas, which have profoundly shaped my artistic voice.

What excites me most about my work is the ability to tell stories and spark meaningful dialogue through movement. Whether it’s blending dynamic physicality with architecture, advocating for social change, or honoring cultural traditions, I aim to create pieces that resonate on a visceral level. Dance-making, for me, is about building bridges—connecting people, ideas, and emotions in ways words sometimes can’t.

Looking ahead, I’m diving deeper into creating works that reflect my personal journey and the communities that inspire me. I’m excited to expand my repertoire, perform for new audiences, and continue crafting pieces that challenge, uplift, and connect.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Throughout my journey, I have come to value room awareness, humility, and the courage to spark change. Walking into a space as a dancer is not just about technique; it’s about reading the energy, understanding the dynamics, and knowing how to contribute meaningfully to the moment. Developing this awareness has taught me how to truly be present, not only as a performer but also as a collaborator. I have learned to ground myself in humility, recognizing that every space I enter has something to teach me. Whether I am dancing alongside seasoned professionals or leading my own creative projects, I approach each opportunity with respect for the process and a desire to grow.

At the heart of my journey is a commitment to revolution—not only in the art I create but also in how I move through the world. For me, dance is a powerful tool for change, a way to challenge norms and tell stories that disrupt and inspire. It involves creating work that goes beyond aesthetics and delves deeply into what really matters—justice, truth, and connection. Revolution isn’t always loud; sometimes it manifests in the quiet moments of pushing boundaries, whether in a rehearsal room or on stage.

For those navigating their own paths, embrace your ability to read the room, stay humble in your pursuits, and never shy away from creating your own revolution. Each space you enter is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and grow. Your impact as an artist lies not only in how you perform but also in how you make others feel, think, and see the world differently. Stay grounded in your purpose, and let your art reflect what you stand for. The change you seek begins with the risks you take and the authenticity you bring to every space you touch.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Here’s a polished response based on what you shared:

I’m absolutely open to collaboration and deeply missing the part of the creative process where there’s a deep flow in partnering with other dancers—the physical, touch-to-touch connection that brings a sense of trust, presence, and discovery. There’s something magical about the energy shared in those moments, and I’m eager to reconnect with that aspect of creation.

Beyond dance, I’m also looking to collaborate with engineers or creative thinkers who can help turn abstract ideas into tangible objects or experiences. I’m drawn to projects that create new worlds—ones that address the needs of a better society, foster connection, and build stronger communities. I want to work with people who aren’t afraid to explore humanity’s sensitive, uncomfortable spots and use art and innovation as tools for transformation and dialogue.

If this resonates with you, I’d love to hear your ideas and explore how we can build something meaningful together. Feel free to reach out to connect and start a conversation—I’m always open to bold, thoughtful collaborations that challenge and inspire.

My instagram page is:

https://www.instagram.com/jose2_ac

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jose2_ac