Artist Spotlight - Shelley Siller

Throughout the years we’ve met incredible people within the dance film community. We have decided to do an interview series to spotlight these individuals. 

Shelley Siller is a Dancer and Choreographer based out of Washington, D.C. We screened her film “A Reflecting Pool of Visuals” in 2018 and “The Grid” in 2020.

How did you get into dance filmmaking?

I was extremely lucky to be introduced to filmmaker Jeff Prioleau by a mutual friend. I have huge respect for his artistic eye and his creativity and we inspire each other to take our content to the next level!

How does architecture or location play a role in your films?

Location, location, location! When Jeff and I talk about a shoot, we are usually talking about location first. I was inspired by a gorgeous sunset I saw at a marsh nature preserve in DC and we did a great water shoot there, and he was inspired by the sunrise at the Reflecting Pool and we hopped in and created a beautiful video there as well. Light, natural elements, and man-made structures play a huge role in our collaborations.

Choreography vs. improvisation? Which do you prefer and why?

I prefer improvisation! I love having the freedom to play on a shoot, to use what’s around me, and to have the flexibility to create with the videographer in real time on the day of the shoot.

Is there anything else that you would like us to share?

Stay tuned for our cicada Brood X celebration shoot, coming soon!

You can learn more about Shelley and her work here https://www.shelleysiller.com/

Instagram @shelleysillerdance

You can find Jeff’s work here @jeprioleau

Images provided by Shelley Siller