To My Beautiful Community,

 

Thank you for being here. Many of you have been with me since the beginning, and your unwavering support has meant the world to me. As you experience this work, I hope you will recognize how important it has been for me and all who have contributed to its creation.

 

I must take a moment to acknowledge my incredible creative partner and dear friend, Masha Dashkina Maddux. Her constant support as a friend and an artist has been invaluable. This work would not have been possible without her. Through this journey, I’ve come to understand that when you put what you desire into the world, it has a way of manifesting. All the extraordinary artists you see on stage and those working behind the scenes arrived at the perfect moment to help bring this piece to life. For this, I am deeply grateful.

 

To my husband, Anthony, and our children, Lyla and Jacob, thank you for your patience and for allowing me to make space in my mind and body to reconnect with myself and my art. Your support is immeasurable, and I love you all to the moon and beyond.

 

The Day You Painted The Stars began taking shape shortly after the passing of my aunt, my stepfather, and while my brother-in-law was fighting for his life. As many of you can relate, I turned to my art to process the indescribable pain I was experiencing—a pain that, for me, has still takes my breath away. Before this, I had not created anything in a while. But in my grief, this work evolved out of my meditation practice and the process of healing. The title, The Day You Painted The Stars, serves as a mantra—a reminder that each of my ancestors left a piece of themselves that has traveled through time and space, shaping me into who I am today and continuing to guide me through life. They painted my stars, and in a way, they are all present in this piece… especially my Nana (who instilled in me the importance of live performance art), whom I feel most strongly.

 

I created this work by following my intuition, and I am blessed that so many talented artists arrived at just the right moment to help bring this vision to life. The process has challenged me, pushing me beyond my comfort zone, and in many ways, it has shown me that my creative journey is only just beginning.

 

It is my deepest hope that this work will inspire you to reflect on those who have painted your stars. May it bring you comfort and a realization that even amid profound heartache, there is still beauty to be found.

 

With all my love,  

Diana

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Each element of The Day You Painted The Stars represents experiences and visions choreographer, Diana Mighdoll Hoffmaster had during her meditation practices. They are incorporated into the work to tell the story and are beautifully expressed by each of the artists:

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The Meadow – is inspired by a peaceful space imagined during meditation, creating a whimsical element that sets the tone for the entire piece—suggesting a quiet, meditative space that invites the audience to enter a world of introspection and safety. It represents a place to return to, a grounding force amid grief.

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Black Fabric – The fabric embodies the heavy, overwhelming emotions accompanying loss. Its fluidity might suggest the way grief moves and shifts, at times suffocating, at times liberating, as we process deep emotions.

The Shadow  - Through Masha Dashkina Maddux’s portrayal, the shadow self is explored. This concept of our darker side, often neglected or suppressed, plays a crucial role in understanding ourselves fully. By acknowledging the shadow, one can embrace all aspects of the self, finding wholeness through contrast.

 

Fields of Violets – represented by Alexandra Burchette and Sarah Muti, represent visions of fields of violets and whisp-like fairies supporting this grief journey. The fairies move through space without edges, continuously flowing into the next magical moment, living in a space that is so beautiful that it is almost too much to bear. As we look back on our memories with loved ones, we can be transported to that magical space, the gold dust that once existed.

 

The Elephant—During mediation, the elephant was seen as a constant, steady energy source, bringing security to the fact that no matter what happens, this strong creature is there to guide you. Sharing this experience with Scully inspired her to knit the sculpture, which was then decided to be included in the work.

 

The piano – As Diana grew up in a home with a piano always in play, the instrument brings a strong sense of self and comfort. The collaborative artistic relationship between Diana and Scott Young was fast and furious, and both found it to be very healing. Scott’s compositions help to carry the story along, bringing different layers of reality with his live performance.

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Tori Amos – Tori Amos’s influence on Diana is a personal touch that brings a unique texture to the piece. By weaving in her music and collaborating with Amos’s permission, Diana has allowed her own creative journey to be intertwined with the emotional essence of the work. Amos’s music is often known for its emotional depth, making her a fitting soundtrack for a project so deeply rooted in grief and healing.

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