"I think that — and it’s also related to the fifth one — growing up as a dancer I primarily learned to channel emotions through other parts of my body besides my voice, therefore when I watch silent movies I’m touched on such a deep level. To me, it was a form of acting that I gravitate towards. It’s so beautiful because it incorporates the body in such a way; your vocal chords have a great intonation but in reality it’s so much more, it’s about using the body, using the soul and all these things. So I love it. It’s such a technical movie that I learned so much from. But that’s just my approach as an actor. The storytelling was also very beautiful: the story about this box that they come to realize what’s laying in it is hope — that was a very beautiful message."

"This is a book that I picked up while browsing because the cover intrigued me. I’m so happy that it did, because the book has given me a richer context for understanding our body and the societal perceptions of our various parts. It’s a totally compelling read."

"This body of Jackie's work contains so much pride. The farmers portrayed have such a strong stature and presence — proud of their work, and how their environment has influenced their dress. I also love how it contrasts with the land and agriculture."

"Of course, the black body exists within a wider black culture — one Hurston portrayed with grace and insight in this seminal novel. She defies racist Americans who would standardize the cultures of white people or sanitize, eroticize, erase or assimilate those of blacks."