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creation

// CLARK NEXSEN

iteration

The explorations of characteristics each revealed properties that were carried forward toward a cohesive element-something that had the ability of adaptation on stage, presenting many identities throughout the duration of the performance; something that allowed for the abstraction of the human form, using lighting to hide and reveal; something with a makeup that allowed for different movement methods, ranging from fluid to rigid. This adaptation of identity, abstraction of body/space, and ranging movement create a dialogue of “Commonality & Diversity,� providing a multitude of ways in which the element can be interpreted. The variety of ways the element can be used, explored, and manipulated personified the individual

strengths and backgrounds of the dancers. The first step toward an element that integrated all of these ambitious qualities was taken by simply combining three components, each possessing one of the traits desired. Design trial and error led a path of material and connection analysis. Although each of the qualities explored easily provided enough framework to individually support the design of a series of elements, the final element would not be the quintessential image of each quality, but rather the quintessence of the summation of the three ideas. Thereby creating a family of elements with roots in the originally explored qualities.