Today we’d like to introduce you to Roberto Alvarez Jr..
Roberto, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I knew I was different from the other boys my age growing up. I acted and thought differently. My world didn’t revolve around girls or football. I chose to try new things to find my place in the world. In college, I started out studying Dietetics, but I ended up receiving my BA in Dance from the University of Texas Pan American in 2015, I went on to obtain my MFA in Dance at Texas Woman’s University in 2018. It was during these years I realized that I wasn’t supposed to find my place in the world. I was meant to create it for myself and others. Naked Yoga Dallas is about activating & integrating your whole self. Layers of clothing are the first thing that is removed. Everything else brings us closer to our natural self.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I am first and foremost a teacher. My teaching philosophy includes creating a dynamic learning environment for students/participants to think critically, challenge and question norms, and foster agency. These principals are my teaching practice. As a naked yoga instructor, I create a similar environment where men develop a practice of a mind/body connection, challenge what it means to be naked with a group of men and make choices bringing them closer to their natural self. My message is that yoga is for “everybody” regardless of size, age, or ability. The same goes for naked yoga. When we shed our clothes, we remove a layer of armor, exposing our secrets and inhibitions to others. There is much value if honoring and appreciating our body.
How can artists connect with other artists?
It can be lonely. Your craft is your own–you provide it for others. Specifically, playing the role of an instructor means creating boundaries between my students. My advice would be to expose yourself and be open to all possibilities. I thought I was crazy for wanting to start a men’s naked yoga group. It turns out that some men find it empowering. Share your artistic voice to others. You never know when a like-minded artist will want to collaborate. Be their inspiration.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
You can stop by my studio and join us for a class. I often post on Instagram.
Contact Info:
- Address: 3112 Swiss Ave. Dallas Texas 75204
- Website: Nakedyogadallas.com
- Email: nakedyogadallas@gmail.com
- Instagram: @Nakedyogadallas
- Twitter: @Nakedyogadallas
Image Credit:
Justin O’Keith
Tom Rubeck
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