Welcome to Burlesque

Welcome to Burlesque

Calovich, Graci

This series was inspired by the film: Burlesque (2010). As a historical performance style, burlesque dancing exhibits exaggerated archetypes of feminine identity that rely heavily on gendered objects. The film features elaborate costumes made of pearls, lace and red velvet, pin stripes and fur, feathers and roses. Using these symbols as a reference point, I wanted to confront their position within a greater conversation of femininity and performance, suggesting that societal structures create and promote narrow gender identities.
I am photographing with a large format film camera. This period appropriate imaging tool visually supports the genre while allowing me to approach the subjects with a high degree of control. My goal is to examine the scenes and objects away from their romanticized context, curbing the subliminal ways that we interact with similar imagery. Each photograph is a 1:1 contact print, hand made in a darkroom from a film negative. This reflects my commitment to careful and involved image making.

2026