January 9 - March 8, 2020

Opening Reception: Sunday January 12 from 2 – 4 PM.

A behind-the-scenes look at how technology influences the artistic process: ‘Shape of Dance’ explores dance movements as 3 dimensional sculptures and demonstrates how the use of new technology in conjunction with old techniques can enhance the creation of contemporary sculptural work.  The exhibition includes models and documentation of the creative and technical journey involved in this project, in virtual-reality through a cutting edge Free-Dome multi-projector display installation in partnership with local technology expert Gord Harris.

Growing up in Edinburgh Scotland, the artist attended the Scottish Ballet School and later danced professionally.  These early experiences are fundamental to her work.  By partnering with Fast Motion Studio in Toronto and local artist/dancer and performance artist, Meredith Blackmore, direct capture of dance movements and translation of these movement pathways into sculptural forms was possible.

A Motion Capture recording of the dance was made and the creation of special computer code allowed this recording to be converted into a file that was then  printed on a rapid prototype machine.  A rubber mold of the printed model was created and then wax was poured into the mold to create a wax positive.  The use of the ancient technique of lost wax casting of the final shapes create the kiln-cast glass sculptures.    The use of glass as a medium creates an additional dimension to the performance with light refraction and reflection adding to the dance.

The first part of the exhibition displays the various steps in the process and includes models and molds used in the project.  In keeping with the use of new technology in the creation of this work, a virtual reality dome with video and still images of the work in progress is available to enhance the experience.  The main part of the exhibition consists of a selection of free standing motion pathway shaped sculptures and also includes three wall installations.  Some of these movements seem to spin or rotate while others look like the flare of a dance skirt.  It is hoped that the viewer will experience this sense of exhilaration and freedom that is dance.

This project and exhibition has been made possible through a grant from the Ontario Arts Council – Conseil des arts de l’Ontario. Thank you for encouraging and supporting the benefits of the arts in our community!