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CLIENT Personal Project, Ohio University Master's Thesis
TIME FRAME Winter 2004
PRODUCTS Photos, Limited Edition Prints, Written Magazine Article
PROJECT
Burlesque is back. . . baby!
During the 1800's this tongue in cheek variety show pushed social boundaries with witty skits, scantily dressed women and striptease. Burlesque then gained a sleazy reputation and the burlesque houses in New York City and across the country were shut down. This once forbidden performance art has made a comeback. Young women are creating their own style of burlesque using the humorous and seductive song and dance routine but with a modern twist. From the back-alley bars of New York City to Broadway, curtains are opening to crowds who come to be shocked and awed, tempted and teased, by the new stars of burlesque.
APPROACH
I was put to the test my first attempt photographing a burlesque performance at a club in New York City. I was called on stage and made to perform - or at least assist - the hula hooping burlesque star. My job was to throw hula hoops over her hands while she spun around in an outrageous glow in the dark bikini costume. Each time I missed . . . . dare I say . . . I got spanked. I was such a good sport they invited me back to photograph. Just to clarify, I was not invited back to perform!
RESULT
The collection of photographs and written magazine article became my masters thesis for Ohio University along with limited edition prints.
ACCOLADES
Ohio University Graduate Student Grant
1st Place Portrait Photo of the Year