Oct 16 2012
The Cost of Art
A poster advertising one of Loie Fuller’s dance performances after she became known for her use of dramatic lighting.
The intention behind the skirt dance is fascinating in the sense that its intention is polar opposite to most other dances: to hide the body. Whereas in interpretive and modern dance, where the body becomes the instrument to express emotions and stories, skirt dancing has the performer hiding behind yards and yards of fabric, creating shapes and illusions with the help of two poles to help support the mass amount of fabric. Even more invigorating is the use of lighting to blend colors and project images onto the skirts. It’s a multimedia presentation in the sense that it’s both a dance and light show, and I’m surprised this style isn’t more popular today – think of the possibilities with the lighting technology of today…
Dedication to a craft as unique and gorgeous as skirt dancing, like Ms. Sperling exemplifies, is what we need if we want to keep the Arts alive.
You note that you’re surprised that Sperling’s style of dance – with the light show – isn’t more popular today, and I totally agree. Many areas of art (fine art, photography, music) are now so technologically-based. And why should dance be different? But who knows, maybe one of us will become a dancer and transform the art of dance!
I also agree that not enough is being given to art programs whether in school or not. By having art programs more students will grow into art loving adults who will be able to appreciate dances such as Sperling’s and would probably be willing to donate a little. This type of dance is also rather amazing in its own way, especially with the energy it takes to perform it. As technology for this type of dance improves do you think audiences will increase too?