Olas y Faldas

themed photo sets and collages, digital shots in black & white, 2026

Model: Rosa Sisneros-Jimenez, Mexican folklorico dancer

Solo shot 2

Solo shot 1

Continous shots 2

Continous shots 1

Collage 2

Collage 1

About the piece...

I created this piece for the “Movements & Perspective” art exhibition at UNM-Valencia for the 2026 spring term. “Olas y Faldas” is inspired by the gallery’s theme. I wanted to capture the silhouettes and shapes created by the motion, body, and costumes of dance. The movement of Mexican folklórico skirts reminds me of ocean waves, which is where the name comes from—“Waves and Skirts” in English.

It is beautiful to see these shapes come alive through dance, but one advantage of photographing them is that the viewer can appreciate each unique shape as its own sculptural work of art. I tried to capture as many interesting shapes as possible while the dancer performed some of her own choreography. I also included a few posed shots to highlight the costume’s beauty.

The perspective aspect of the gallery’s theme is reflected in my choice to shoot in black and white. While an audience at a live performance enjoys the vibrant colors of the costumes, my photographs allow viewers to focus on the shapes themselves, rather than the overall feel of the performance. Presenting an art form usually valued for its movement as still images can deepen the viewer’s understanding and appreciation.