How our Contemporary bodies harmonise energy is a research based project that I started in order to explore how the martial art practice; Aikidō impacts somatic contemporary practices through breathwork, functionality of weight and cultural conduct.
On a whole it looks at the effect Aikidō has on somatic movement, the relationship dancers have towards each other and tests how different cultural philosophies react and blend together within a dance environment.
This project included a movement research process consisting of conversations and workshops that developed into a final Movement documentary, an exhibition and an academic paper discussing the cultural and movement impact that occurs.
The exhibition was held in Trinity Laban in London showcasing the mini documentary movement film, an aikido film, posters of the workshop process and a research sketchbook.
The research and paper was presented and discussed again the following year at the British Conference of Undergraduate Research in London 2024. As well as seeing an exclusive part of the movement documentary film.
The team who worked within this project:
Dancers:
Charlotte Coles, Anna Evans, Fern Kershaw, Trinity Maguire Toombs and Tessa Nichols
Aikido Martial Artists:
The movers at Tetsushinkan Dojo London.
Movement and Culture professionals:
Dr. Thomas Jansen, Ben McEwen, Lauren Potter, Paul Smith and Daniel Squire.
All photos by Friederike Zinn
Photo 1 shows Anna Evans, Trinity Maguire Toombs and Tessa Nichols.
Photo 2 shows the martial artists from Tetsushinkan Dojo.
Photo 3 shows an insight into the Exhibition.
Photo 4 shows Charlotte Coles and Fern Kershaw.
