This is the first of a photo series inspired by the quote, "On stage, I am in the dark." expressed by Maria Callas, as well as my work with contemporary ballet dancers since many years.

 

Although Maria was probably referring to her being extremely myopic, she also admitted that this aided her stage presence and ability to be fully in the moment. I immediately related to similar experiences of freedom in the state of "blindness" she referred to during moments of performance. I realised through the honesty of her remark that a performer, someone who appears to have polished answers in front of a public, is actually someone whose strength lies in what they do not show, what they cannot be, and just in what they are at this very vulnerable instant.

 

This photo series is a small dedication to this "in the dark" state, this acceptance that at any moment, things can change - you can find loneliness or unification, success or failure. Suddenly the earth below you is the only thing you own and you can offer up your own nude humanity by simply saying "I don't know". For me, this is a strength, a true mirror into the soul, and has been my artistic goal as I continue to recognise myself as "soprana".​

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ONLINE PHOTO PERFORMANCE

Concept: Maribeth Diggle

Photos: Ilja Vlietstra

Hair&make-up: Marissa Coster

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