Figures

This project lies at the intersection of my inspirations: modern architecture, urban design, and contemporary dance. It is an attempt to bring these elements together and see how they complement one another. I find my inspiration as an occasional extra in ballet productions. When working for a major European ballet company, I noticed dancers of different ages, races, and nationalities. It amazed me that in spite of the differences between these individuals, they came together to perform in harmony, and create a shared experience. Thinking of this made me happy; it inspired me. At the same time, my experience as an artist has helped me realize that people are the same everywhere. After moving to Tokyo from Moscow more than eight years ago, I’ve been working on photo projects trying to connect the two cities. In deciding to make this project more international, I’ve traveled to cities in Asia and Europe, capturing new combinations in my work. On these often short, spontaneous trips I reach out to dancers, and have been lucky to always find willing collaborators. We shoot on first meetings, and sometimes lack a common language, but each encounter is unique. Through travels in Tokyo, Moscow, and Hong Kong, I’ve worked with dancers from Spain, Russia, Norway, Italy, and the Philippines. The places in my work could be anywhere, and the people, from anywhere. The locations and the people do not have to represent the city or the country in which they are shot; instead I hope they express the idea that art unites both people and place.