Ozymandias
Ozymandias
Inspired by P. B. Shelley's poem of the same name, "Ozymandias" invites viewers to ponder the inevitable passage of time and its impact on human achievements. The choreography unfolds as dancers sculpt the very essence of time, creating intricate patterns of motion that reflect the rhythms of life and decay. As the performance progresses, it becomes clear that time is the only constant, a silent witness to the cycles of creation and destruction.
For 'Ozymandias,' I bring my background in fashion design, interactive art, and technology to create a set that is both visually engaging and deeply connected to the performance. I used Touch Designer to develop a visual program that mirrors the fluidity of time and the effects of weathering, aligning with the theme of the piece. I envisioned the performers as particles on a vast canvas, illuminated by golden light that pulses in sync with the rhythm and tension of the dance.
To achieve this, I mapped projections across the entire stage using two Optoma short-throw projectors through MadMapper and added a dome-like filter to transform the space into an immersive, ambient environment that fully engages both the performers and the audience.
Audience
projector
Physical Installation
polyester mesh dome hanging in the center of the space
Projection Area (26 ft x 16 ft)
projector
Stage (37.3ft x 24.2 ft)
Audience
Audience
VJ & Lighting
Control Station
I see the set for 'Ozymandias' as a large-scale visual artwork that transcends traditional setups by being highly interactive and responsive. Instead of a conventional stage that separates the audience from the dancers, I designed the performance space to act as a vast container that envelops everyone, merging spectators and performers into a unified experience. This approach enhances the audience's understanding of the themes by breaking down physical and symbolic barriers, reflecting the poem's exploration of impermanence and our shared human experience.
DANCE ‘OZYMANDIAS’ DEBUTS IN NEW YORK CITY: AN IMMERSIVE DANCE EXPERIENCE EXPLORING TIME AND LEGACY