Awilda Sterling Duprey: A Pioneer of Afro-Caribbean Dance and Artistic Expression
Awilda Sterling Duprey, born in Barrio Obrero, Santurce, Puerto Rico in 1947, stands as a pivotal figure in Puerto Rican artistic heritage—a dancer, choreographer, painter, and scholar whose multifaceted career embodies the spirit of experimentation and cultural fusion. Her journey began with formative years steeped in the vibrant traditions of Afro-Caribbean dance, shaping her lifelong dedication to exploring movement as a conduit for storytelling and social commentary.
Education and Early Influences
Sterling Duprey’s artistic foundation was established at Escuela de Artes Plásticas y Diseño de Puerto Rico (1971), where she honed her painting skills—drawing inspiration from abstract expressionist masters like Franz Kline and embracing the rhythmic energy of jazz musicians such as John Coltrane. Further enriching her intellectual pursuits, she attended Universidad de Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus (BA Humanities, Minor: Visual Arts & Languages) and Pratt Institute in Brooklyn (MFA), delving into diverse artistic disciplines. Notably, she earned a Doctoral degree at Center for Advanced Studies on Puerto Rico and the Caribbean (2011), focusing on Caribbean History—a testament to her commitment to critical engagement with cultural narratives.
Performance Practice: Combining Tradition and Innovation
Sterling Duprey’s artistic identity crystallized in her pioneering role as founder of Pisotón, Puerto Rico's first experimental dance collective—a collaborative endeavor that championed innovative movement techniques and challenged conventional notions of performance art. Her work consistently blends Afro-Caribbean dance traditions with jazz improvisation and contemporary choreography, resulting in performances characterized by visceral energy and profound exploration of identity and cultural heritage. Performances like *Pieza de balcón* (1985) and *Seis en uno* (1989) exemplify her commitment to pushing artistic boundaries while honoring ancestral roots.
Notable Achievements and Recognition
Throughout her career, Sterling Duprey garnered numerous accolades recognizing her contributions to Puerto Rican culture—including an NEA Experimental Dance Fellowship (1985), a Caribbean Cultural Contribution Award from the Puerto Rican Cultural Institute (2001), and a United States Artists Rolón Fellow (2010). Her artistic residencies with Taller de Otra Cosa further solidified her reputation as a visionary artist dedicated to fostering dialogue and collaboration across disciplines. Exhibitions showcasing her paintings—such as *Correspondence/correspondencia* (El Lobi & Taller Malaquita, 2018) – demonstrate her versatility and enduring fascination with visual art forms.
Whitney Museum Contribution and Ongoing Legacy
Her work was recognized by the Whitney Museum of American Art where she participated in “Quite as It’s Kept” (Biennial: 2022), showcasing *Blindfolded*, a performance piece responding to jazz music—specifically Miguel Zenón's album *Sonero*. The piece explores themes of vulnerability and resilience, mirroring the spirit of Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria. Sterling Duprey continues to inspire younger generations of artists in Puerto Rico and beyond—a beacon of creativity and cultural preservation who embodies the transformative power of artistic expression.
