Flamenco (2008, Marina Sturino)
Capturing dance in its most beautiful form, Marina Sturino (b.1967) is a performing-arts-loving amateur photographer.
With a history of working on productions including FadoMeu (2005), Sturino’s passion for framing moments of a performance is only getting bigger.
When BOOKlet met Marina Sturino, we learned about her work with innovative choreographer Wiebe Moeys, her love for Imogen Cunningham and the dream she never fulfilled.
When did you begin your career as a photographer?
Mid-December, 2005. Wiebe Moeys was working on his production, FadoMeu, for the Teatro delle Erbe in Milan. I took my first photos during rehearsals using his digital camera.
What inspires you about photography?
Dance in action. Musicians during concerts. Babies at their first stage performance. Some of my best photos aren’t published on the internet, as their subjects are babies and I want to respect their privacy.
Why is dance the central theme of your artwork?
I have been an amateur dancer since I was 17 and I have no intention to quit. I never had the possibility to study as a dancer, so working with professional dancers with my camera helps me to overcome my unfulfilled dream.
Tell me more about Give More Hugs (2006).
One morning, Wiebe Moeys and I (plus dancers) met in a small theatre to work on the promotion of his dance company (Wiebe Moeys Dance Project). Give More Hugs is the photograph that I took while he attempted to make human sculptures with five dancers.
What do you want people to feel when they see your photographs?
My love for dance and the performing arts.
What makes a good artist?
The ability to create artwork that calls forth emotion in the beholder.
Who is your favourite photographer?
Robert Mapplethorpe or Imogen Cunningham. In particular, I love Cunningham’s photos of the choreographer, Martha Graham.
How has Italian culture influenced your photography?
My Italian culture doesn’t influence my work. I’ve worked with Dutch choreographers who have danced throughout Europe and the USA. My favourite photographers, dancers and choreographers aren’t even Italian.
Describe your personality in five words.
Emotional, stubborn, honest, genuine, crazy.
Describe your photography in one word.
Spontaneous.
This month, the Whitechapel Gallery will be showing a new film created by Melanie Manchot, Celebration (Cyprus Street).
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