Residency Blog: Elaine Kordys
I applied for the residency to continue the research from my Shedidancy a year
previously. I had the desire to re-visit my writing but hadn’t understood quite how important it would be.
The approach to my writing has been influenced by my interest in ‘Desert Islands Discs.’ I was able to re-structure my previous writing using the format of Desert Island Discs exploring the different dance forms (discs) which I have practised throughout my life. I focused on 2 dance forms during this residency time and have enjoyed researching them and considering their place in my life. These are interjected with stories about my changing health and how it has influenced my creative and day to day life.
In the afternoons of the first few weeks I re-visited the movement work gathered in the Shedidancy. I was surprised to find that I wanted to continue where I had left off, not to change anything, purely to add. The choreography is infused by the movement vocabulary of Freddie Mercury. Working in this way encouraged me to try new ways of moving, posturing and using characterisation which I found quite free-ing and fun.
Since the Shedidancy we have built an outdoor space (known as the Grand Pavilion) which I began to view as a stage and decided to locate the film work here.
Most of my afternoons were then spent choreographing for this space and getting the ‘set’ in order. As suggested in my proposal I went for the one- take filming approach, partly for ease and partly because I felt this quality suited the content. I looked at the films of Wes Anderson and gathered inspiration on composition and costume. I was determined to have a completed piece by the end of the 5 weeks. I wasn’t caught on the quality moreso to have a piece of work that exists and that I can reflect on which I achieved.
I now feel drawn to continue exploring the relationship between a person and their muse. I am considering using The Desert Island Disc format for making future films. A series of vignettes ‘Desert Island Dances’ inspired by different dance forms or prominent people. I have a stage, an approach and have gained confidence in working through solo practice again. Looking forward I am considering inviting a film maker to work along side me to develop further short films exploring these themes.
‘Don’t stop me know, I’m having such a good time, I’m having ball.....’
All images by Elaine Kordys.