Choreographer George Balanchine said ”God creates, I do not create. I assemble and I steal everywhere to do it –from what I see, from what the dancers can do… ”.
In making art we gather from what is already there, more than we create it. I remember the turning point for me on my journey learning choreography, when I read a quote that said ‘the reward of the choreographer is in mining for gold in personalities’ (I would quote here if I could remember who said it… possibly Doris Humphrey). The point where I knew the process was not about coming up with or teaching choreography but in fact looking for it. Mining for gold in personalities. Allowing the dancers to bring something of them selves to the process of developing the work. Not only in their movement, but in who they are. Gathering from what is already there. Being able to see it. If it’s in the making of art or in the making of our lives, we need to mine for gold. As a mother, as a women, as a friend, as a photographer… looking honestly for beauty & truth in others… and reflecting it back to them.
*(self portraits taken by Peter & Lisa Jay – including Anouk age 2)
I love the tranquility in your self-portraits. I find it hard sometimes to confront myself in self-portraits… might be a lesson in there somewhere!
Lisa, your whole blog is testimony to your artistry with what you see, what you present and how you express it all. Very inspiring and uplifting! We love all your work.
These are the most beautiful photos of you Lisa. I hope you are so going to frame sme of these. I especially love that last one of you and your little girl. heavenly! xxx
Wow! What an amazing post…you have both captured your self portrait beautifully, you look amazing Lisa especially with your daughter in your arms, a picture ~ no doubt, someday she will treasure. Keep up the good work/excellent talent!
Just beautiful!