Making David Smith Dance

David Smith’s study of moving forms and dancers, in particular choreographer Martha Graham, served as the inspiration for the recent public program–Making Shapes in Space: David Smith and Dance.  Kelly Mayfield, artistic director of Contradiction Dance, choreographed a response to the energy and movement of the sculptures in David Smith Invents.

Compare the company’s interpretation of Bouquet of Concaves to the sculpture in the Phillips. What’s your take on this cross-disciplinary collaboration?

Contradiction Dance company's interpretation of Bouquet of Concaves (Photo by James R. Brantley)

David Smith. Bouquet of Concaves , 1959. Steel, painted. The Phillips Collection, gift of Gifford and Joann Phillips, 2008. © Estate of David Smith/Licensed by VAGA, New York, NY

If you’re interested in more photos from the performance, check out our Flickr set.

2 thoughts on “Making David Smith Dance

  1. David–I didn’t know about these. I’m so glad you mentioned them. They are an amazing complement to this event!

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