Design Thinking & The Legion of Extraordinary Dancers
I’m a dancer.
Not to sure if any of you know this (lol).
Before I delved into graphic design, web design, and social media, dancing was my passion. It still is, but not to the extent that it used to be. From an early childhood, I’ve always had a massive fascination with the convergence of dance and design – the art of human expression through motions.
My journey as a dancer began as I sat in front of a tv screen, amazed at the human defiance of motion expressed by Michael Jackson. He was indeed a Design Thinker. He had an ability to design motions in such a way that it not only captivated an audience, but told a story. His story. Our story. Beyond mere performance, Michael Jackson had a unique gift that I think remains misunderstood by those who are not dancers.
I’ve seen hundreds of teams perform in my lifetime. I’ve performed in various arenas as well. But there is always a deeper yearning for the authentic expression of the art of dance that I think has been missing. Originality. Uniqueness. Remarkable. Defiance. Honestly, I feel that way about everything. lol.
Recently, I stumbled upon an amazing example of what design thinking looks like when it collides with the art of dance. I’m sure most of us are familiar with varies genres of dance and have seen many live performances in our lifetime. However, I came across a unique group of dancers that I think may have what it takes to redefine what it means to dance as both art and design. A group of dancers that go by the name of LXD.
LXD: The Legion of Extraordinary Dancers
LXD is a film, a series, a team, showcasing the next generation of dance. Created and filmed by John M. Chu, director of Step Up 2 and Step Up 3D, this film is a convergence of some of the world’s most extraordinary dancers. To date this team has performed on stages and major events such as TED and The Oscars. Once I saw one of their performances online, I was immediately captivated by the design, the art, and the human defiance of motion.
Absolutely breathtaking.
From what I’ve heard, a film is set to be released this year that will chronicle these dancers in a variety of dance scenes. You can find out more info about the film and the group by googling their name. But for now, take a look at one of the teasers from the film:
March 21, 2010
Onye
I second all emotions. I've loved urban and African dance since birth and I was also in a dance company on FAMU's campus (Orchesis Contemporary Dance Theater). I don't dance as much anymore but I am always captivated by companies such as these (I'm a big Alvin Ailey fan). Great post!!!
March 21, 2010
Courey Wong
Man when I saw the film i was captivated by the genius in this film and the precision and fluidity of their movements. What I saw was true art in the form of movement. Being who I am I saw the connection between kong fu and dancing and kong fu is an art form as well. I thought it was so good i had to watch it over and I marked the name down so I can remember to look them up and not forget about this greatness.
March 21, 2010
Antwon Davis
@Onye - I've taught Hip Hop, Urban, Mime, and Praise dance when I was more of a dancer. I had a friend of mine who had the chance to see Alvin Alley live here in Atlanta.
@Courey - I'm most intrigued by human defiance through dance and motion. To design ways to move your body in such a way that it defies or alters the natural function and motion of the body is remarkable to me. Michael Jackson brought that to the world in a very unique and memorable way. I was so captivated by one of their performances, that I almost cried. When you can witness design, art, and dance at such a level, it leaves you speechless. Or at least, that's how I felt. I'm looking forward to the release of the movie.
May 28, 2010
Steve
Man when I saw the film i was captivated by the genius in this film and the precision and fluidity of their movements. What I saw was true art in the form of movement. Being who I am I saw the connection between kong fu and dancing and kong fu is an art form as well. I thought it was so good i had to watch it over and I marked the name down so I can remember to look them up and not forget about this greatness.