Living Image: Chapter 1 Reimagines Sphinx Dance

The "Living Image: Chapter 1" project at Siobhan Davies Studios in London features five choreographers developing new dances in response to Siobhan Davies' 1977 solo performance, "Sphinx." A unique aspect of this initiative is that the participating choreographers have not seen the original "Sphinx" dance. Instead, Davies, a pioneer of UK contemporary dance, shared her personal experiences and feelings from creating the piece nearly 50 years ago as their primary inspiration. This approach shifts the audience's focus towards the creative process, which is often concealed in artistic endeavors, offering a glimpse into the performer's internal experience and the genesis of a dance.

This project is part of a year-long endeavor that will eventually involve 20 choreographers. The current "Chapter 1" runs until July 3rd at Siobhan Davies Studios. A film of the original "Sphinx" performance will be shown post-performance, allowing audiences to see Davies' interpretation of her animal self in a graceful solo. The subsequent "Chapter 2" is scheduled to take place in November, continuing the exploration of Davies' legacy through contemporary interpretation. The project highlights Davies' ongoing commitment to questioning artistic methods, even at 75 years old.