Movement Diary began as something task-like, to force us to create. During a year in Japan we thought it was a perfect opportunity to do something throughout, to record the year through movement.
We try to fit the movement diary production into our daily life, to take the camera out and shoot to reflect what we’re doing at the time. The movement also reflects this, showing how Masumi feels on that day, both physically and mentally; how’s the weather, what else is happening in our lives.
The locations are chosen to make an interesting image each time, so the collection of films is like looking through a photo album. It’s important to keep making.
All the films follow a simple set of rules and the same format: 1 minute of improvised movement with no edits. The simple rules of the project encourage expression, honesty and risk-taking. We want to push an alternative form of expression, a way to share your feelings in a way that is open and vulnerable, and cuts through the glaze of social media.
In 2017 we would like to expand on the project, opening up to new audiences through participation in workshops, digital projects and installations.
Masumi Saito is a movement artist trained in contemporary dance. Masumi Saito was born in rural Japan. Dancing from the age of 3 she moved to the UK in 2005. With training in many diverse dance forms, she started her solo performances shortly after graduating from London Contemporary Dance School. She has performed at Tate Britain, ICA, RCA, Southbank Centre, Kanazawa 21st C. Museum, Edinburgh Fringe, Nakanojo Biennale, Donau Festival, and more.
Guy Wigmore is a film-maker and producer specialising in online content for the arts and has worked for clients such as: London Symphony Orchestra, Barbican Centre and BBC Radio 3. In partnership with Masumi Saito he has directed a number of dance films, which have been screened internationally at International Video Dance Festival of Burgundy (France), Agite y Sirva Video Dance Festival (Mexico), International Screendance Festival (USA), SEDA – Semana del Audiovisual (Argentina), Numéridanse.TV – Maison de la Danse Lyon (France), Now&After13′ International Video Art Festival (Russia)