March 2008 - June 2008
San Francisco Ballet—the oldest professional ballet company in America—has enjoyed a long and rich tradition of artistic firsts since its founding in 1933, including the first American productions of Swan Lake and Nutcracker. Guided in the early years by American dance pioneers and brothers Lew, Willam, and Harold Christensen, San Francisco Ballet currently presents more than one hundred performances each year, both locally and internationally. Under the direction of Helgi Tomasson for more than two decades, the Company has achieved an international reputation as one of the preeminent ballet companies in the world. The spring of 2008 marks the seventy-fifth anniversary of San Francisco Ballet, and in many ways, the company is more vital than ever–upholding a strong commitment to its classical roots while embracing innovative new works.
The images in this exhibition by photographer Erik Tomasson, illustrate the incredible breadth and diversity of the San Francisco Ballet repertory, which includes classical, neoclassical, and contemporary works. Tomasson accepted the extraordinary challenge of capturing a movement-based art form with still photography, and the result is a unique collection of portraits that convey the boundless passion and consummate artistry that San Francisco Ballet brings to the stage.
Born in New York City in 1971, Erik Tomasson was introduced to the world of dance at a young age by his parents, who were both ballet dancers. Having grown up in close proximity to the art form, he has cultivated a deep understanding of dance that enables him to capture images of astonishing clarity and precision. Tomasson trained at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, and graduated with Honors from the Film Program with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.
Photography is not permitted.
©2008 by San Francisco Airport Commission. All rights reserved
This exhibit is beyond the screener checkpoint, where only ticketed passengers are allowed.