Philia Gallery

Hong Kong, China 2008

Coordinator for Justo Almendros: Jacqueline Okuma

Danza Amarga (Bittersweet Dance) is a collection of flamenco stills Justo Almendros captured during a performance of the show Intimo (Intimate). The photographs depict Rafael Amargo and his crew in intense  dance poses. Just by glimpsing at the body positions and expressions we are able to envision the passion they exude while they dance.

Each instant stolen by the photographer reveals intimate emotions that can only be revealed when the artist uses their whole body to communicate to the audience. Justo exquisitely suspends these moments in time so we can experience those emotions over and over again. The backdrops of the photos are black, so our focus is only on the dancer. Justo's skillful use of light and dark highlights the most expressive details of the dancers' bodies.

This exhibition was on display for one month at the Philia Gallery in Hong Kong.