National Photographic Portrait Prize 2019 Finalist
Nelson began his career with the Sydney Dance Company as a Pre-Professional Year dancer, in 2015, and has since become a full member of the company. During the shoot Nelson discussed the ephemeral nature of performance – a fleeting look into surrender and absolute resonance between mind, body and the viewer. Dance exists in each split second of the moment and then evaporates; it is the quintessential art. Nelson’s performances have earned rave reviews and he was nominated for Best Male Dancer at the 2018 Helpmann Awards. My portrait reveals the highly disciplined architecture of Nelson’s body and his sensitive gaze.