Jonas Krämer aka Jon Sky is part of the Urban Arts Ensemble Ruhr and, as a performer, choreographer and lecturer, he makes a significant contribution to the urban arts scene not only in the Ruhr region. With his work, Jonas takes us on a journey to ourselves. You can find out what other intentions lie behind his artistic work in the following issue of "Urban discovery with".
Photo credits: Eva Berten
Photo credits: Eva Berten
Our questionnaire
Urban discovery with: Jonas “Jon Sky” Krämer
Name:
Age: 25
Place of birth/place of residence: Saarbrücken/Wanne-Eikel
Profession: Freelance artist in the performing arts, performer and dancer in the Urban Arts Ensemble Ruhr, choreographer, international dance teacher
"The Ruhr region is diverse. In almost no other place in Germany you can get to know and observe so many different ways of thinking and cultures as here."
How would you describe yourself and your work to an alien?
I wrap experiences and teachings in a way that takes everyone who watches on a surreal and emotional journey. My intention is to bring people to develop an awareness of themselves, their environment and the earth.
I am currently doing this as part of the recently founded dance ensemble "Urban Arts Ensemble Ruhr", as an international coach and community builder with my self-founded project "HopeFam" and in various collaborations with other artists or in self-initiated projects.
What drives you to create art?
Art is life, life is art.
My art is to make people aware of this.
Most people are consumed by the stress and worries of life in an unhealthy cycle and system. We find ourselves in an unconscious survival mode in which we neglect and forget ourselves and the world around us. I too was once one of these people. Through art, especially dance, wonderful mentors and my personal experiences, I learned a way out, which completely changed my life in an extremely positive way.
I would like to share this path with my fellow human beings. I create art to make our world healthier, happier and in harmony with nature for myself, my fellow human beings and future generations.
What do you love most about the Ruhr region in general?
The Ruhr region is diverse. In almost no other place in Germany you can get to know and observe so many different ways of thinking and cultures as here.
The Ruhr region is networked and accessible. No matter where, no matter how: on any day in any city you can find an opportunity to create, train, relax and, frankly, do anything.
There is always a place to stay with friends. There's always someone here to listen. That's nice!
Three places in the Ruhr region that you definitely show visitors:
All parks, forests and green spaces, the Zollverein colliery (and the Cologne riverside).
Photo credits: Gabrielius Jauniškis
Photo credits: Gabrielius Jauniškis
Photo credits: Mantas Repečka
What makes the art and culture scene here so special?
Together with Berlin, the Ruhr region is a mecca in Germany for creating and living art. As I've already mentioned, the region is diverse and networked. You don't find that everywhere in Germany.
Because the Ruhr region has all these qualities, I also think that it can reach a very large number of people, inspire them and create change.
Where can you feel the Metropole of the Arts here?
In many places. To name a few: Pottporus e.V., PACT Zollverein, Tanzhaus NRW, Open Space Bochum, Flottman-Hallen Herne, Weigle-Haus Essen
Where/when did you have your best cultural experience?
At the premiere of our first Urban Arts Ensemble Ruhr production, "Cracks", at PACT Zollverein. My parents have always been critical of my decision to pursue art as a profession. After the premiere, my mother told me that she finally understood this decision. That is such a meaningful and wonderful moment for me that I will never forget.
Where do you like to eat & drink?
At the "AROMA Vietnamese Kitchen & Sushi Bar" in Essen. The wonderful people who work there always make me feel like part of the family and the food gets 11 out of 10 points from me.
The best parties are in...
It's more about the people you party with than the location - and there are definitely the right people here in the Ruhr region.
If the Ruhr region was a song, this is what it would sound like:
It would definitely be a rap song with lots of different rappers that sounds raw and honest.
What is your next project?
Our urban dance theater production, "MC Messer" with the Urban Arts Ensemble Ruhr, will celebrate its premiere at Theater Oberhausen on April 19, 2024.
