This is a modern dance-based program linking the major principles of dance and visual art. Dance is primarily a kinetic art based in the human body. When presented to an audience, dance is also a visual art. Our work will be hands-on, working with both physical and perceptual forces. Embodied physical forces, like gravity, time, space, effort, motion, and momentum, will be linked to visual perceptual forces like shape, perspective, line, volume, and color. Together they present an aesthetic impression that is interpreted by an audience as sensation, emotion, thought, and behavior. Using texts and movement, we will review basic anatomy, learning the musculoskeletal structure and function of major body parts by isolating and then integrating them into a whole-body movement practice serving as an instrument of artistic design. We will gradually integrate the major principles of visual art, creating dance compositions in the studio, while simultaneously designing visual components of choreography like costuming, prop and set design, lighting, staging, and presentation. Please note: This is a movement-based program and students should be prepared for continuous, disciplined and well-focused physical activity.

Dance technique, practiced daily, will begin with learning an advanced Pilates “floor-barre”, building physical strength, stamina, range of motion, body awareness, and control. We will then add aesthetic dance exercises designed to refine physical movement into an expressive, fine art practice. The architecture, notation, and functionality of dance are based in Laban and Bartenieff movement analysis. Activities include a Pilates floor barre, Nikolais-Louis dance technique, dance theory/improvisation, composition, and performance, augmented by anatomical and object drawing, a study of color theory, and designing and constructing visual components of theatrical production. Previous dance experience at the beginner/intermediate level is advised.