LEANING INTO SOFTNESS

Reflections on i love you, i do. | Volume I:

I’ve known Melody and Dawson for a few years now and have had the privilege of collaborating with them as movement artists and overall creatives.  At that time, they weren’t in an intimate relationship yet — they were just getting to know one another along with all the other artists I had recently hired as Artistic Director of L.A. Contemporary Dance Company.  Their companionship and fondness for each other blossomed right in front of me. In real time, I observed as they discovered ways to support each other in and out of the studio, and how that support naturally spilled over into their artistry on stage.

Several years later, when the seed of an idea for this docu-series came to mind, they were one of the first couples I thought of.  It just felt like a natural progression to continue our creative exploration together.  

As I closely worked with them to gather their stories and build the world of Volume I, it was wonderfully magnificent to witness their admiration and respect for one another and their willingness to share it so openly.  I felt privileged to have a window into something so precious and sacred.  

As I was in post watching raw footage and reviewing images, I found myself struck by how comfortable they were on camera—just fully existing as themselves. You might assume that comes naturally for people who perform and are used to being seen, but that’s not always the case. Many professionals are still camera shy. With Melody and Dawson, though, there was a softness that really moved me.

Thank you to Melody and Dawson. And thank you to YOU—for watching, for reading, and making space and time for love.

With gratitude,

Jamila Glass