We often think of dancers as performing just for the stage, but their awe-inspiring moves bring a fresh new perspective when brought to the city streets. Photographer Melika Dez travels the world to capture ballerinas (and ballerinos) among monuments and skyscrapers, as they twist and contort their bodies into graceful movements that complement the surrounding landscape.
In front of iconic sights like the skyline of Manhattan, the dancers are dressed in plain clothes and often sans ballet shoes. In doing this, they cloak their talents from the rest of the world—clad in jeans and a t-shirt, they look like anyone else. Then suddenly, their incredible athleticism erupts on the steps of the subway or in the middle of a bustling intersection. It brings a lively addition to an otherwise ordinary scene and represents the essence of why people love living in metropolises—anything can happen, including these amazing artistic expressions.
Dez’s series of dancers is ongoing. Follow along with her beautiful modern dance photography through Instagram.
Melika Dez captures modern dance photography that has performers showcasing their incredible moves on city streets around the world.
Melika Dez: Website | Facebook | Instagram
My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by Melika Dez.
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