hello!
I'm a contemporary dance choreographer, poet, and researcher from the Lickanantay (Atacameño) people of northern Chile, currently based in Salzburg, Austria.
I work primarily in choreography and performance within contemporary dance, with a strong focus on improvisation as both a creative and research practice. I am particularly interested in exploring the borders of contemporary dance through other relational sensitivities and cultural approaches. I have also trained in Kandyan Dance from Sri Lanka, an experience that continues to expand my understanding of movement and embodied traditions. Alongside my work in dance, I also write poetry. I have published three books, Sangre de calzón en remojo y un peso evaporándose, Al lado del árbol muerto, and La piel del poema.
Contemplative practices are also an important part of my life. I have received formal instruction in Yoga and Buddhist meditation, and I remain deeply interested in paths of awareness, presence, and contemplation. I am also drawn to collective approaches to well-being and community practices, and have participated in initiatives such as Cooperativa Guasasapo. Since relocating to Salzburg, I continue developing dance, poetry, and artistic research while engaging with new cultural and creative environments.
When I'm not dancing, writing, or working on artistic projects, I enjoy swimming—especially in the ocean—riding my bike, eating cookies (vegan!), drinking tea, and reading. I also love watching the stars at night and spending time close to rivers, trees, and landscapes that invite quiet attention. While I now live near the Salzach here in Salzburg, I remain deeply connected to the desert of Antofagasta and San Pedro de Atacama.
If you'd like to take a look at my CV, you can find it here.
If you have any questions or would simply like to connect, feel free to write to me at pili@pilarbeltran.info
Here are some of my current projects:
Since December 2025 I have been directing a choreographic creation project consisting of a trilogy based on the experience of three performers. We are developing the first work with dance performer Vanessa Trecanao, a Chilean based in Barcelona. The research begins from four pillars I proposed: connection with life experiences, contemplative practices, relational sensitivity, and gratitude. From there, through conversation, questions emerged, and a methodology linking body, street, and emotion began to take shape. The work includes dance, audiovisual material, interviews, and poetic material, which I am still developing.
I am also dedicating time to deepening the relationship between improvisation and contemplative practices, generating theoretical research that also includes practice. I love this workspace, and I hope to share more with you soon.
To see previous projects you can go here.
I have two writing projects underway: one called Reinigung and another called Ventanas. Both emerged from my life experience during these past years in Salzburg. I am venturing into writing in German and looking forward to seeing how that exploration continues to develop.
To see previous works you can go here.
I am currently not offering Kandyan workshops or meditation classes. They are only part of my personal practice at the moment.