My practice has evolved into one essentially exploring body language. I am interested in the transformation of relationship when the dichotomy of “this” and “that” flux, and where empathy is a ground for dialogue. Through playful interactions, I am searching for a fluid and re-organizing nature of self.

I believe dance crosses the boundaries of cultural thought, gender, sexuality, identity, at the site of the body. For me, moving as a body in space is a way of exploring the invisible and imaginary, while painting allows me to revisit a physical site in which the invisible is revealed and mapped.

My work also seeks to redefine religion as embodiment and relationality, as opposed to indoctrinated colonial theology. I question pedagogy as something which projects pre-determined “human” ideas onto the body, which are constructed by a capitalist, anthropocentric society. I believe dance education has the capacity to allow us to learn from the body’s wisdom and memory, through the experience of various listening exercises. I also believe spaces which support learning this way can nurture social and aesthetic change.

My practice is one which intends to give the body a stronger voice, and to facilitate this dialogue with oneself, the social and physical environment, ancestors, and non-human beings.

Sasha Bjerken Cohen (born 2003, New York City) received a BA from Bennington College in dance, visual arts, and creative writing. Since graduating in 2025, he has worked for, collaborated and lived with sculptors Mia Westerlund and Alice Adams in Upstate, NY and NYC.

His paintings are periodically shown at the boutique, Hannoh +, in Brooklyn, NY. He also leads swimming classes in NYC, where he aims to share his experience with water as a healing medium which can support the dynamic structure of the body.

Images and text © Sasha Cohen 2025 Inquire at sashabjerkencohen@gmail.com