Source of Light (2018)

December 7, 2018

BIODANCE teams with media artist Josh Thorson and chamber ensemble FIVE BY FIVE – modern chamber music to share First Friday performance at Visual Studies Workshop on Dec. 7, 2018. 

Inspired by composer, vocalist, dancer, choreographer and filmmaker Meredith Monk, choreographer Missy Pfohl Smith and BIODANCE have paired with the modern chamber quintet fivebyfive and film/media artist Josh Thorson to create a new multi-arts experience as part of a month-long residency awarded to the artists by Visual Studies Workshop. This collaboration explored three mediums in which Monk herself actively works: music, film and choreography/dance. 

Recognized as one of the most unique and influential artists of our time, Meredith Monk’s work thrives at weaving together new modes of perception. Accepting the Gish Prize, Monk said “art can be a healing force and a source of light during dark times.” From this quote, these Rochester-based artists gleaned a title for this new experimental, interactive work premiering at Visual Studies Workshop as a culmination to this artistic inquiry. The project combines music arranged for fivebyfive by the quintet’s bassist Eric Polenik, with visuals and movement that was developed over the four-week residency.