I’ll be honest. Based on the name of this short film, I expected Biomimicry to be an examination of how the movements of dance can emulate the biological processes of living things. And maybe it is. But all I know for sure is that I was immediately distracted from whatever point the film was trying to make by the awe-inspiring beauty of the costumes worn by dancer Jingjing Mao. They are all simply spectacular. The way they move with Mao to highlight the flow of her body. The way they undulate around her. They are extraordinarily beautiful. And then I read the summary below the video and realized that that was actually the whole point of this piece. So naturally, I had to watch it all again with that in mind.
I’ve often written about how much I want to be able to see dance in person once more. This desire hasn’t changed, but I will admit to being happy to have seen Biomimicry on film. Film allows for the movements to be slowed down. To really focus in on the relationship between the dancer and the works of art she’s wearing. It’s a beautiful juxtaposition, and these intricacies would have likely been lost when viewed from afar. So while I still yearn for a return to theatres, I’m grateful that this piece was committed to film the way that it was.
Suggestions for artists I should check out? Please contact me with your ideas. I hope you enjoyed your daily helping of art!
