I practice drawing in the theaters as I observe the magic that happens on stage. I like to think the illustrations enhance my reviews of the performance. Observational drawing and painting from the model are two modes of seeing which are different from the perspective we normally have when viewing a photograph of the performance. I make quick sketches, commonly called corquis, while a live performance is happening. My observance of the human form, the action and the set take on the world and all of its glory. These three paintings recently completed for a pop up show in Old City Philadelphia. This new work captures the performance on stage and it shines a light on audience participation, interpretation, and responsiveness. I pay close attention to what is happening. This energy that I can feel while drawing a live performance makes me wonder if the rest of the audience can feel it too.

My work might be considered an adaptation from one art form to another by sketching in sync with the performance. I feel a connection to the action happening on stage and the dynamic energy as I sit amongst the audience. There are various moments in the play, dance, or opera that make the most sense to capture, but they can be very still. It is more important to capture something moving slowly but with intensity, or something happening quickly and fleeting. These moments are a contrast with the visual effect of costume, setting, or even character. I am inspired by all of it, and what they are doing is a performance.

 

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