2012 Capital Congress

Art In Motion - Darlin Garcia

Darlin Garcia is the founder and artistic director of Art In Motion Latin Dancers. Born in the Dominican Republic, this energetic dancer, performer, and instructor has gained recognition as one of the top male salsa dancers in the Philadelphia area. With over nine years of experience, Darlin Garcia has danced and performed locally, nationally and internationally in countries like China, France, Panama, Ireland, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

He recently opened up his own studio, Art in Motion Dance Academy, which is located at 1219 Vine Street in Philadelphia, on the 2nd floor of the beautiful Asian Arts Initiative Building.

Darlin has recently placed 2nd in the world in the On1 division at the 2011 World Latin Dance Cup in Las Vegas. He placed 2nd in the On1 Divison at the 2010 World Latin Dance Cup. His most significant accomplishments include winning 1st place, two years in a row, at the Philadelphia SalsaFest (2010-2011), winning 1st place in the Philadelphia Qualifiers 2012, winning 1st place in the San Francisco World Salsa Qualifiers, and 3rd place in the 2006 ESPN World Salsa Championship. He is also featured in the How Philly Moves project where his image is displayed, alongside other talented artists, in a mural located by the Philadelphia Airport. Over the course of his career, he has developed creative techniques as illustrated in his sizzling and up-tempo choreographies.

Art In Motion - Liz Becerra

Liz's passion for dancing began 11 years ago where she took her first salsa class. She was instantly captivated by the rhythm and movement of the dance. Shortly after, she began training with an amateur dance team and slowly developed herself as a performer. After a short break, Liz returned and began training under the guidance of Darlin Garcia and soon joined Art In Motion in January 2007. A performer and instructor, she has extended her artistic talents where she has spent 5 years teaching as well as choreographing several routines.

Currently, Liz serves as the Business Manager of Art in Motion Dance Academy. She also works alongside Darlin Garcia to train Art In Motion's Semi-Pro Team. She recently took on the challenge of training and directing Art In Motion's Ladie's Team. With over 11 years of experience, Liz has danced and performed locally, nationally and internationally. Some of her travels include places like Ireland, Panama, France, Montreal, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Cancun, Toronto and many more. Aside from dancing, Liz is working on completing her studies soon to achieve her Bachelor's Degree for Theater.

In March 2011 Liz was the 1st Latin Dancer to be featured in the March 2011 Edition of Vicissitude Magazine. The article covered her life as a dancer as well as her accomplishments and challenges over the years. She is also featured in a video Interview. Her most recent accomplishment took place in December 2011 where she and her student, Tshiams Katala, competed in the Pro Am division at the 2011 World Latin Cup. They made it to the Semi-Finals and represented Philadelphia in an intense and difficult division.