Itzel Hernandez // Milwaukee, WI

I love how small the ballet world is: everyone knows someone that knows someone that I’ve photographed, or knows of someone who has participated in this project. I came about Itzel that way. Being in Chicago for a few days, I hadn’t even considered photographing a ballerina in Milwaukee until an old friend who had just moved to Milwaukee suggested it. 

Next, I researched the ballet company and realized one of the three guys I’ve shot in this project danced there now. He quickly offered help reaching out to a ballerina who happened to know 7-8 dancers I’ve worked with in the past. 

As far as a backdrop, find me anything with lines, add a ballerina, and I’m happy. The Art Museum is one of the most unique buildings, even having wings the flap up and down depending on the weather.

September 11, 2020