ARCHS & TEXTURES DWTN
A dynamic performance series inspired by the architecture and history of the Central Fulton Library took place in Downtown: Underground Atlanta and Hardy Ivy Park.
This performance series is funded by Arts & Entertainment Atlanta, a neighborhood activation and economic development project for Downtown Atlanta.
Archs & Textures DWTN explores the unique architectural character of Atlanta's Central Library, which was designed in Brutalist style by Hungarian-born Bauhaus architect Marcel Breuer.
Our company was inspired by the range of shapes found inside and outside of the library -- the lattice patterns, the blend of cement and wooden textures, and the monumental staircase structures. We also approached the building from a humanistic perspective, imagining how it might express itself if it could feel emotions. The building might feel like a stranger, an outsider, even an immigrant, next to the buildings more standard-looking for the area.
The library was slated to be destroyed, but saved in 2016 after a multi-year preservation effort led by activists and downtown Atlanta residents, and renovated instead. So, this performance also explores the fragility of a huge cement structure awaiting its fate at the hands of people, significantly smaller and brittle physically compared to it.
Choreographic direction, basic costume design: Nadya Zeitlin.
Special costume design: Jennifer Schottstaedt.
Collaborating performers: Shea Carponter-Broderick, Nicolas Hopkin, Amber Kirchner, Raina Mitchell, Jacquelyn Pritz.
Music by Xay Zoleil.
Photos by Kimara Dixon.