Today we’d like to introduce you to Peter Arizmendi.
Hi Peter, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, surrounded by Salsa, Disco, and the emerging culture of Hip Hop. Beginning my dance journey in the early 1980s, Wvryone calls me “Bam” I became part of New York City’s street-dance movement through crews including Crush City Rockers, Dynamic, Rhythm Technicians, and NYC Breakers. My journey would take me from the streets of New York to stages, film, education, visual art, and storytelling. Today, I continue creating while preserving the culture and history that inspired him.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been hard through different periods of my life especially with my mother contracting the HIV Virus late 80s and also my girlfriend was murdered Around that time as well. Another thing hip hop dance was not actually a respected art form. Especially during the 90s.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m known for dance especially the robot. I performed it in the 90s hip hop show “Break” the urban funk spectacular as a filler to meet timing of the show for 90 mins. I had no idea it would take off and inspired the next generation to dance like the robot again. I’m also know for art inspired by my neighborhood hero’s Keith Haring, Basquiat and Graffiti artist Lee.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
It’s a roller coaster ride. It’s a season of doing great and seasons of not making any money at all. But stay believing and keep going! Rewards will come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.peterarizmendi.com/#/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peterarizmendi?stkn=OXI3Yjh4dnIzcWF0&utm_source=qr
