Dancers Among Us

Have you seen these stunning series of photos, Dancers Among Us, by Jordan Matter?

They really take my breath away.

And also make me want to become a dancer just so I, too, can be in such incredible shape.

Those legs!

For those of you dealing with the effects of the blizzard, you could always try shoveling snow like this! What I love most is the idea of all of these dancers among us. The next time, I’m strolling through New York, I hope to be surprised. The best part? The photographer, Jordan Matter, didn’t even set out to become a photographer. His friend needed non-generic headshots, so he picked up his camera one day and as the sun was setting, snapped a few shots. I love that a passion can find you. Just sneak up on you and surprise you and then completely change the course of your life. Isn’t that such a lovely notion?

What’s even lovelier is  that Jordan Matter came up with this series after watching his son play. He says: “As we get older and wiser, what happens to this enthusiasm, this ability to be wholly present in the moment? Why are these pure moments of passion so often replaced by cynicism, boredom, and indifference? As I played with my son, I thought about creating photographs that would show the world as if through the fantastical eyes of a child. The people in the images would be alive and in the moment, celebrating all aspects and emotions of everyday life.”

He created these images for his two children. “I want them to be free from self-consciousness, to discover the deep happiness of impassioned lives, and to find the serenity to be truly present. These photographs communicate my dreams for them more powerfully than words alone– relish moments large and small, recognize the beauty around you, and be alive!”

[All photos by Jordan Matter via designworklife]