"Flamenco in the Stars" in Salesforce Tower subverts expectations, infusing the skyline with the beauty, resilience, and indomitable spirit of immigrant women.
When gazing upon the San Francisco skyline this March, observers will be captivated by an extraordinary sight atop the iconic Salesforce Tower: the vibrant flamenco movements of Japanese-born immigrant artist Mizuho Sato, immortalized in a mesmerizing video installation crafted by interdisciplinary immigrant artist Badri Valian who moved to San Francisco from Iran a decade ago.
This stunning visual spectacle, featured as part of the Salesforce Tower Midnight Artist Series, tells the story of the parallel lives of two remarkable women. Embarking on arduous journeys to the United States, specifically to San Francisco, Mizuho and Badri have forged thriving careers as artists committed to enriching their communities. Their shared mission: to amplify awareness about the marginalization of women and girls in their birth countries and drive transformative change. Although inspired by their lived experiences in their own home countries, this issue is a pervasive global problem that continues to require awareness.
Launching with perfect timing during Women’s History Month, this collaborative work of video art resonates profoundly with the trials and triumphs of immigrant women. It boldly illustrates their resilience and creativity in carving out empowered lives in a city renowned for its vibrant cultural tapestry.
Mizuho Sato: Born in Iwate, Japan, Mizuho Sato started classical ballet at the age of three, so she has been dancing all of her life. She started studying Flamenco in University and has mastered the art, teaching and performing around the world. In 2023, she opened her own company to embrace the multicultural Bay Area flamenco scene and to spread the power of healing "flamencura".