Every once in a while, we'll come across a photo series that makes us want to jump for joy. Dancers Among Us, a collection of NYC dance photographs taken by Jordan Matter, has done just that. An ongoing project that began in the spring of 2009, these images made no use of trampolines or other jumping devices. They were just the result of thousands of hours of training.
I got to ask Jordan about the inspiration behind this series.
“The idea for this body of work came during a performance by the Paul Taylor Dance Company. I was inspired by the dancers' stunning combination of artistry and athleticism. Their commitment obviously extends beyond the rehearsals and performances- it is a way of life. I began to photograph these dancers as everyday people. In the photographs they are away from the stage, yet they cannot leave dance behind. As they go about their daily routines, they do so as dancers. This speaks to the power of a passionate life; if you're fully invested in something, it is always with you.”
