Gem 67’s Swan Lake photoshoot draws inspiration from Black Swan, a 2010 psychological thriller that explores obsession and perfectionism in artistry. The model, dressed in white feathered angel wings with a black skirt and tights represents the duality within every performer.
Part of what makes this theme so meaningful is that portions of the Black Swan were filmed at Purchase College. The film's cathartic final performance, when Natalite Portman's character fully transforms into the black swan, was shot in the Concert Hall of the Performing Arts Center. Although our stage was meant to represent Lincoln Center in the film, it still belongs to Purchase College.
At Purchase, where art, dance, and design interact everyday, the story of Black Swan may feel personal to students who dedicate their energy and pour themselves into their craft. Everyone must practice the balance between control and surrender. By recreating these elements, Gem67 hopes to honor Black Swan’s legacy and also the unmistakable spirit of creation that lives and grows at Purchase College everyday.
This shoot is a reminder that transformation, in any part of life, starts with a release. The release of a need to be perfect, of a burdened past, of self-limiting beliefs. Only then can one alchemize themselves and their life into something radiant, authentic, and truly free. As quoted in the movie, “Perfection is not just about control. It’s also about letting go.”