Cultural influences

Definition

Cultural influences refer to the impact that various cultural elements, such as traditions, beliefs, and social practices, have on the development and expression of artistic forms, including dance. These influences shape the themes, movements, styles, and techniques that dancers use in their performances, allowing art to reflect and respond to societal values and historical contexts. The interplay between dance and culture creates a rich tapestry where artistic expression can be a powerful vehicle for communication and identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Martha Graham's technique drew heavily from her understanding of psychological and emotional states, reflecting the broader cultural trends of expressionism during her time.
2. Graham's choreography often incorporated themes from mythology, literature, and personal experiences, showcasing how cultural narratives shape dance content.
3. The evolution of Graham's technique was influenced by her background in both modern dance and classical ballet, highlighting the blending of different cultural practices in her work.
4. Her collaborations with composers and visual artists emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary cultural influences in creating cohesive performance pieces.
5. Graham's emphasis on personal expression helped pave the way for future generations of dancers to explore their own cultural identities within their art.

Review Questions

• How did Martha Graham’s work reflect the cultural influences of her time?
  • Martha Graham's work was deeply influenced by the cultural currents of expressionism and modernism that characterized the early 20th century. She used her choreography to explore psychological themes and personal narratives that resonated with societal changes during that era. By incorporating elements from literature and mythology into her dances, she illustrated how cultural stories could be expressed through movement, making her work not just a reflection of dance but also a commentary on contemporary culture.
• In what ways did Graham's technique contribute to a shift in how dance was viewed as an art form within its cultural context?
  • Graham's technique shifted perceptions by positioning dance as a powerful form of personal and emotional expression rather than merely a display of technical skill or entertainment. This redefined artistic standards allowed for greater exploration of themes such as identity, trauma, and societal issues within dance. As a result, her approach encouraged other choreographers to experiment with their own cultural influences and personal experiences in their works, transforming the landscape of dance into a more introspective and culturally relevant practice.
• Evaluate how Martha Graham’s integration of various cultural influences can inspire contemporary dancers today.
  • Martha Graham's integration of diverse cultural influences serves as a powerful model for contemporary dancers seeking to express their identities and experiences. By blending elements from different artistic disciplines and cultural narratives, she demonstrated that dance could be a means of exploring complex themes relevant to society. Today's dancers can draw inspiration from Graham's approach by embracing their unique backgrounds and influences to create work that resonates with modern audiences while pushing the boundaries of traditional dance forms. This legacy encourages innovation and inclusivity within the performing arts.

Related terms

Expressionism: An artistic movement that emphasizes the expression of emotional experience rather than physical reality, often seen in dance as a way to convey deep personal feelings.

Modern Dance: A genre of dance that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a reaction against the rigidity of classical ballet, focusing on freedom of movement and individual expression.

Cultural Heritage: The traditions, values, and practices that are passed down through generations within a particular cultural group, influencing artistic expressions like dance.