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Task 4: Visualising the body

This task deals with the five positions in ballet. In order to explore these positions as shape and movement, it addresses a fundamental principle: Verticality, the line of the aplomb, and the dynamic inherent in the ballet dancer's relationship with gravity.

This is a black and white photo of a ballet couple rehearsing in a studio. The man is dressed all in black leggings and t-shirt. He is raising on his toes and slightly bending his upper torso to the left. His right arm above his head and his left arm bended with his hand grabbing his partner's hand. The woman is next to him, on his left. She is wearing a black leotard with a long tutu and pointe shoes. She is on her left pointe, her right leg raising in a backwards and upwards bend, her upper body slightly bended to the back. Her right hand is above her head and her left hand is holding onto her partner. He is looking at her but she is looking to the front. The studio has a ballet bar and a picture on the wall.

Activity 4.1

You have read Paskevska's and Tully's texts for the previous activities and might have noticed that they both use a diagram to visually explain their understanding of dance.

1

What are the similarities and differences between the diagrams in the books (Paskevska, 2005, p. 27; Tully, 2011, p. 17) and this one by Leonardo da Vinci?

This is a photo of a manuscript in brown ink by Leonardo da Vinci. It has some text notes at the top and bottom of the page and a large diagram  in the middle. The drawing shows a naked man standing inside a square which has a circle around it. The figure is duplicated one on top of the other showing four arms and four legs  extended to the sides.

Tully is more abstract in his representation. He references both the geometric lines of movement in space and indicates the connection between different worlds (spiritual, mental, physical). His is an 'open' image that can be explored in a number of ways.

Paskevska's circles are around and within the body referring to movement or feeling as experienced in the body. Both circular drawings can be related to the way Leonardo framed the human body in his famous work which refers to the ideal proportions of a human body. He connected science and art.

In turn, Leonardo was inspired by an ancient Roman architect called Vitruvius for whom the human figure provided the proportions for his architecture.

In one of your classes you will have a chance to create your own image about dance as you perceive it.

Check your answer

Activity 4.2

The following questions will help you to think about the verticality of the body facilitated by the spinal column and its importance for ballet technique. Read sections "The Spinal Column" and "Getting Centered" (pp. 17-20) in Valerie Grieg's text and answer the following questions.

This is a black and white photo of a ballerina performing. She looks happy. She is standing on both pointe shoes with the right foot crossing in front of the left. Her right arm is bended in front while her left arm is extended to the side. She is facing to the right. She is wearing a sleeveless short tutu.

Grieg, V. (1994) Inside Ballet Technique: Separating Anatomical Fact from Fiction in the Ballet Class. London: Dance Books.

2

Lengthening of the spine

What is the main function of the spine? What functions does the lengthening of the spine have in our daily movement and in ballet?

The spine (with the help of the pelvis) is key for supportingthe weight of the head, rib cage and shoulder girdle.

The lengthening of the spine has anatomical, mechanical, structural and aesthetic functions. It helps protect the vulnerable natural curves of the spine; allows each section of the spine to occupy the space it needs to facilitate breath and greater movement range; lengthens the waist; etc.

Check your answer

3

Images for the 5th position

The 5th position in ballet requires the lengthening of the spine and an awareness of a dynamic of opposition. What images, imaginary lines, metaphors or ideas help you to focus on when using this position?

This is an open answer. Your ideas about this position are personal and valid as long as they help you feeling and understanding it. You will talk about them in class.Check your answer