Condor feather in hand, Polish animator and filmmaker Aleksandra Korejwo manipulates dyed salt in search of synchronicity between movement and music. Often inspired by a piece of classical music, her work carries rhythm and texture through the poetics of dance, presenting works of such profound beauty and delicacy. With blended edges and cascading forms, the images can be gentle, soft-flowing, or vigorous and fast moving, yet never harsh. Even in her presentation of Bizet’s Carmen Suite, a figure may move with ferocity but always with the poise of a trained dancer; calculated, precise. This is no surprise, of course, as much of her work is directly inspired by inhabitants of the stage.

She approaches animating in just the same way as those performers, often rehearsing the choreography before committing to the part, sweeping and probing the tiny crystals like stained glass exploded. In a recent interview, she discusses how she approaches the composition, annotating the printed manuscript with sketches and swatches, transforming the bars to graphic notation as a form of expanded storyboarding. In doing so, with precise timing she can effectively marry the two mediums before commencing work on the light-table.

While her works tend to burst with intensity, Ave Maria is much gentler. Reflecting on Franz Schubert’s composition, performed by violinist Kaja Danczowska and pianist Janusz Olejniczak, and the works of master painter El Greco, the metaphysical becomes physical through gesture and colour. With considered use of blues and yellows, the ethereal quality of the music is matched visually as figures gradually form and dissolve; in the hands of the Mother, to those in prayer, rising up into the clasp of wings, as if lit by moonlight. As with each of her works, it’s a beautiful - perhaps even moving - piece and shows her mastery over the erasure form. I will no doubt return once again to Korejwo in a future post, for she deserves greater appreciation. For now, Ave Maria.

As I hold no copyright over these spotlighted works, links may break from time to time, but where this is the case, I ask you - seek them out. It’ll be worth it.