hello!
I'm a contemporary dance choreographer, poet, and multidisciplinary artist from the Lickanantai (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 two books, and in August I will be launching my third book, La piel del poema (The Skin of the Poem), with the publishing house Lagar.
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 the Guasasapo Cooperative. 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 pilar@pilarbeltran.info
Here are some of my current projects:
I am working on an experimental feature fiction film starting shooting in the summer of 2024 under the name "Has Anyone Died in this Pond?", located in Kronensberg Weiher in Salzburg. Also a book about moral understanding. My paper "Changing Minds and Hearts" has been awarded the 2023 Marc Sanders Prize in Metaethics.
A second project is on another feature fiction film under the title "A Hill Under the People".
To check out previous projects you can go here.
I have published in various literary magazines and have read at events in Chile, Germany, and Austria. Currently working on a first full collection exploring the landscape of northern Chile through personal memory and mythology.
To check out previous work you can go here.
I have been working on a novel in Spanish under the name "Idea of an Island" which should be ready before 2024 comes to an end.
A second project is on drawing sketches.
I am an instructor and interpreter in Kandyan dance — the classical dance form of Sri Lanka — and have been practicing and teaching yoga and Buddhist meditation for over ten years. My approach blends somatic awareness, breath, and stillness as tools for both artistic and everyday presence.
I offer individual sessions and occasional workshops in Salzburg.