Final Project – IN-dependence Photo Exhibition

IN-dependence
Artist Statement

The dependency of our art scene on that of other countries comes to mind for this topic. As with other aspects of life in Singapore, the local art scene is always compared and rated in relation to its more established peers in other countries. The notion of artists playing “catching up” is the primer notion explored and from there now, I hoped to capture the emotions that the artist experienced in his or her journey.

I had the privilege of working with a longtime friend for this series. Grace is a full time dancer and the 2001/2002 National Arts Council Scholar (ballet). The images captured attempt to depict emotions during different stages in her pursuit of ballet. Inspirations for the images were from the various stories she told me throughout our 7 yrs. of friendship.

From uncertainty of first foraying into the world of ballet, to the comfort that comes with her increasing proficiency, to the ceaseless search for personal breakthroughs and lastly the pain and sacrifices for her passion, the series was made out to be a progressive portrayal of Grace’s journey as a dancer.

One point, low-key lighting was used in an attempt to highlight her form, through which I felt could better represent the emotions that I wanted to bring across.

The following two images are part of the main class exhibition.

Passion

Passion is the main driving force behind the innumerable sacrifices that artists make for their craft. Through the calluses and growths accumulated on Grace’s feet, I hope that the audience can look beyond the pain portrayed and see her love for dance.

Flight

Flight is a double entendre that connotes the idea of breaking free (flight being liberating) or escaping (to take flight). Portraying our dreams to rise up above and beyond present situations, it also shows, on a deeper level that true liberation may only comes when we move out of our comfort zones.

For a print friendly version of my artist statement and contact detail. Please click here.

Attached are other photos taken from the shoot.

Pain

Solitude

Balance

Motion


Symmetry


Unbounded

Once again, many thanks to Grace for being willing to help in this project and One Eye Click for the loan of the studio space.

~ by crankymike on November 26, 2007.