Before we dive into the Texture Class, I want to share a foundational theory that could be helpful. By understanding and intentionally altering your visual focus, you can effectively control the texture of your movements. Let me introduce you to a technique that leverages the body’s visual information systems to enrich your dance practice.
One practical method involves consciously switching between two visual systems to diversify the textures in your movements.
The Two Visual Systems in Our Eyes
Our eyes use two distinct visual systems to process information:
Ambient Vision: This system gathers information through the entire retina.
Focal Vision: This system relies on the fovea, a small, highly specialized area of the retina.
Understanding how these systems function and their influence on movement can be a powerful tool for enhancing the quality of your performance.
Characteristics of Ambient Vision
Ambient vision is typically engaged when we take in a wide view of the surroundings, such as when admiring a scenic landscape. This system scans the environment broadly, prioritizing spatial awareness and balance. When using ambient vision:
Muscle state: The body generally stays relaxed.
Movement quality: Emphasizes flow, stability, and expansive motions.
Example in dance: Looking outward as if gazing at the horizon can create movements that feel and appear larger and more fluid, making it especially effective for genres like modern dance or ballet performed on large stages. You often see dancers projecting their gaze beyond the audience, which visually amplifies their presence and movement.
Characteristics of Focal Vision
Focal vision is used when focusing on small details, such as reading a book or closely observing an object. This system allows for precision and detail. When using focal vision:
Muscle state: Specific muscles become engaged with focused tension.
Movement quality: Highlights sharpness, detail, and speed.
Example in dance: Narrowing your gaze and focusing on a specific point or person enhances rapid or intricate movements. This is particularly useful in street and urban dance styles, where quick, dynamic actions and detailed execution are key. In competitions, dancers often use focal vision to lock onto a judge or opponent to increase precision and impact.
Practical Applications of Vision in Dance movement textures
Here’s how these visual systems affect movement:
Using ambient vision: If you perform the same movement while gazing outward, you’ll notice your muscles relax, your range of motion expands, and your movements naturally slow down.
Pro tip: Practice looking beyond your immediate space to broaden the scope of your movement, ideal for performances in larger venues or styles requiring grandeur.
Using focal vision: Focusing narrowly on a point sharpens your precision and speeds up your movements.
Pro tip: Practice using a narrow gaze to refine fast and intricate movements, which is especially useful in street or competitive styles like urban dance.
Checkpoints for Dancers
Ask yourself these questions to explore and refine your use of vision:
Am I using focal vision effectively when performing fast movements?
When I want to increase the range and fluidity of my movements, do I consciously switch to ambient vision?
If I notice unnecessary tension in my body, have I tried shifting to ambient vision to relax?
During repetitive movements, have I experimented with alternating between ambient and focal vision to add variety to the texture?
Embracing Textural Diversity in Dance
By applying this theory, you can unlock a greater variety of textures in your movements. Dancing isn’t just about memorizing choreography—it’s about expressing yourself fully through your body. Experimenting with different methods, like utilizing your visual systems, helps you discover what works best for you, enriches your performance, and ultimately brings more joy to your dance practice.
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