These images are from my project entitled Swan Dreams, which was inspired by my mission to introduce the magic of ballet to underprivileged and minority communities, as well as change the exclusivity of a genre that should be open to the entire world. This project uses photography to proclaim the message that beautiful art and boundless talent can be found in all environments. I wanted to use city neighborhoods from the community where I was raised as the backdrop for an artistic project, which not only unites the etherality of ballet with coarsened city landscapes, but expresses my desire to see this art form reborn in the urban neighborhoods. This project exclaims to minority and underprivileged children that they can overcome adversity and become beautiful swans, not only in ballet, but in life.
Through this project, I want to spread ballet awareness to under-served communities that have little or no exposure to the arts. In so doing, I hope not only to convey the message that beauty and talent are not constrained by race or socio-economic status, but to expose young minds to the discipline, beauty and majesty of ballet. I want our youth to know that they are not limited by their environment, only by their dreams.
Never stop dreaming!
A portion of the proceeds from each image sold goes towards organizations already at work spreading the beauty and benefits of ballet, as well as providing an opportunity to donate images to schools, youth organizations and community centers.
Ballet is for everyone to experience and share.
Thank you for your help