Current Release: September 11th, 2007 | Vol. XXIV Iss. 10

Hofheimer Library holds the key to dance

By Christina Foster

The Martha Graham Dancers have invaded the Hofheimer Library!

Blakeley White-McGuire, Maurizio Nardi and Virginie Victoire Macene are subjects of the photographs on display in Hofheimer Library called “Caught on Camera.”

The photos capture movement using interesting camera angles, lighting, focus and composition. The girls wear flowing skirts that flutter behind them as they fly across the stage, which promotes the idea of movement even further.

“I’m always impressed by how you can capture movement from basically still life,” said Stephen Mansfield, Dean of the College.

Associate professor of art Sharon Beachum is one of the featured photographers responsible for four vibrant, colorful photos called “Amorous Play,” “Fugue,” St. Teresa: Homage to Bernini” and “Longing.”

“They read as a design pattern first,” said Joyce Howell, professor of art history, of Beachum’s “Amorous” and “Fugue.” “There’s an interplay between the geometric shapes and the blue and red colors. You don’t get tired of looking at [them].”

Beachum’s works use vivid reds, blues and oranges, as well as multiple images, to create a feeling of movement. Photos with flowing fabrics and the curved lines of the dancers bodies create the illusion of motion.

Photographer Vic Frailing created many works, but one in particular was popular among students at the opening. “Flashdance or How Photography Killed the Dancer” caught their attention.

“It has a multiple screening,” said sophomore Ryan Ferguson. “The colors and the transparencies caught my eye more than some of the other ones.”

Heather Grose agreed saying that “Flashdance” was her favorite because it created movement.

Some photographers captured a variety of textures. Susan Hirschbiel’s photo “Purpose” fits the mold.

“It’s a simplicity of shape,” said Howell. “I like the way it fragments the lower torso. You don’t have to think about [the dancer’s] emotions.”

There are five photographers in all: Beachum, Vic Frailing, Bethany Herring, Susan Hirschbiel and Heidi Kulberg. “Caught on Camera” will run in the library until Apr. 5.