Ensayo, 2004

James Sparshatt   Emerging artists New & remarkable Artists

El Ensayo (the rehearsal) was taken during the Romerias de Mayo festival in Holguin Cuba in 2003. The dance troupe was preparing for a performance of Afro-Cuban folklore and were using an abandoned colonial era building as a studio. 

I sat with the band most of the afternoon sharing a bottle of rum and waiting for a perfect moment.  The dancer stood proud and erect, her mixed heritage giving her an undeniable strength and poise.   I raised my range finder medium format camera, adjusted the focus and with a barely perceptible click captured a moment of dignity. 

This black-and-white photograph captures an evocative moment within a stark, worn interior, resonating with the history and culture of Cuba. The scene centers on a poised woman in a flowing, traditional skirt, exuding confidence and determination. Her gaze is inward, suggesting deep contemplation. The room, with its weathered walls and uneven floor, adds texture and depth, enhancing the timeless atmosphere. Instruments and cultural ornaments hanging on the wall hint at vibrant traditions. In the background, figures conversing softly, framed by a large, light-filled doorway, add layers of narrative. The contrast between light and shadow enriches the composition, drawing attention to the intricate details and emotional nuances. Overall, the photograph masterfully combines storytelling with artistic aesthetics, making it a striking depiction of cultural identity and personal reflection.

James Sparshatt’s photographs of music and dance reveal the emotion and intensity of people lost in the rhythm of the moment. The work is available as silver gelatin and palladium platinum prints.