Rehearsal 8 Binary

Dancer: Claire Coleman


The starting point for this rehearsal was a beam of light from an angled parcan which created a 50 cm pool of light on the floor. There were two distinct research outcomes to this rehearsal.

Firstly I was able to discover how I can use light to highlight the skeletal system of the body. In the photographs and video clips attached it is possible to see Claire's clavicle, scapula and tibia with clarity in a way which would not be possible without the light source. The musculature of the body is also able to be exposed and explored through this dialogue.

I also began to understand how the ability to highlight the anatomical structures of the body can help to contribute towards a psychological mood. By revealing the flesh and blood mechanisms of the body we are able to sense not only the dancer's physical strength, but also their mortality.

I decided to call the final phrase Binary because the tone of the material could be divided into two clear parts. Firstly, the image of the dancer restricted to such a small area of light seemed to create a sense of vulnerability - this is most clearly seen in the first two still shots at the beginning of the video footage. But the attention brought to the physical capabilities of the body through the highlighting of anatomical structures also signified the strength and control of the dancer. These two contrasting visual statements created an unusual environment in which to work from.