Rara Silhouettes – bringing silhouette art to the pole dance community!
How did you get started specializing in silhouettes of pole dancers?
I was going through my Facebook one night and reading everyone’s statuses and came across Sissybuns where she was asking if anyone knew how to do silhouette from a a picture. I responded that I had done one about a year ago , and I would give it a try. The next morning, I went to work on her silhouette. I started about 9am and finished about 3pm, quickly I emailed it to her. She responded and told me she loved them – I just didn’t do one picture for her, I did three different backgrounds with the same silhouette. She then posted it to her Facebook page, and we were just blown away with all the comments she had gotten. A few people wanted them so they contacted me, and that whole week i was really busy. I spoke with Sissybuns on the phone and we were discussing how I can make some money out of this, since there is so much time invested. I came up with the name of Rara Silhouettes and went on from there …..
What is your process for creating a pole dance silhouette? Do pole dancers send you photos to work from?
Yes, I have pole dancers send me their photographs and the silhouette is taken from from there. It takes a lot of time because first you have to cut out their body along with the pole from the existing background. Sometimes it can take up to six hours to make just one silhouette. I am very anal with my work. I had a few people that wanted alterations on the picture, like longer hair, belly slimming, which is not a problem.
Rara’s Silhouette of Veena
What can a pole dancer do to help get the most beautiful silhouette possible?
It’s very important when you choose a photo that you want to turn into a silhouette to first make sure all body parts are shown – meaning arms, feet, hands. I can’t do a silhouette of a hand that is missing some fingers … LOL. I always try to tell everyone that the more spread out you are in your pose, the better. For instance, if someone is standing next to the pole and the body is really snugged along the pole, it would just look a mess when it gets shaded in all black. A lot of times, I will do the pole a different color, just to see the different in the body and and the pole.
Describe your favorite pole dance silhouette. What makes it special to you?
I would have to say Sissybun’s lightening one, because it’s the one that started all of this. I am so glad I took that six hours that day to do something for someone else. That goes to show you never know what may happen if you help out others.
Favorite makeup tip:
Don’t have any, I was looking myself for some tips on here … LOL.
Rara’s Silhouette of Sissybuns
Barefoot, sneakers, or platform heels?
Barefoot; haven’t experienced platform heels yet.
Favorite grip enhancer:
I don’t have much of a problem , but I do have my days. I recently tried Dry Hands and it worked great for me.
Pole dance move that made you proudest to learn:
Gemini.
Pole dance pet peeves:
Non-pointed toes, and too much floor work in one routine.
Favorite treatment for bruises and sore muscles:
Hot shower.
Who would you most like to have in the audience when you pole dance?
I really have to work through my shyness to even go in front of an audience. I don’t even practice in front of family members.
Rara’s Silhouette of Amber Richard
Who is your hero or role model?
Role models, I have three and for all different reasons. Veena (from Studio Veena), because she shows so much emotion in every routine she does and her flexibility just blows me away. Amber Richard, because of her style and grace. Karol Helms, because of her flexibility. All three of these women are amazing in their own way.
What are your favorite words of encouragement?
I can do this, or you can do it.
Favorite pizza toppings:
Not much of a topping person on pizza.
Cupcakes or ice cream?
Both … LOL.
What do you like to do when you’re not pole dancing?
Cleaning the house and I spend a lot of time online. I enjoy reading anything or watching anything that has to do with poling.
Anything else you’d like to share:
I would like to thank everyone over at Studio Veena for all the encouragement and, of course, all the friendships. I never met the best group of people in my life until I started poling.
Contact Rara to make your pole dance moves into gorgeous silhouettes – find her at Rara Silhouettes!
24th June, 2010 - Posted by PoleSkivvies - 2 Comments
Filed under: Pole Dance Art
An interesting tweet
My cool tweep, Angee514, emailed me a few weeks back with thoughts on how we pole dancers decorate our dance rooms. She writes:
My pole is in my basement and it gets really chilly in the fall & winter months. I have to turn on the space heater 10 minutes before going down to the basement to practice. I did put some pictures up that feature all styles of dance and some fake plants to make it look nice and my focus wheel of weekly dance moves to work on. I’m curious to learn how the other dancers decorate their dance spaces.
I thought this was a really cool thing. I mean, we are all so different, how do we all decorate our spaces?
My dance room
A few years ago, I finished my basement and made that into my pole room. It has lovely blue carpet (my feet don’t do well with hardwood), two big mirrors I’ve found at the local recycling center, and – until recently – a stainless steel Lil Mynx pole, right in the center of the room. I also used to have a big folding table piled with music, a stereo (yes, it is so archaic, I know), workout notes, alcohol spray, paper towels, and belly dance costumes.
But, ever since moving in with the man, I’ve had to alter my workout space a bit. It’s still the same room – the mirrors and pole are in the same place – but now there’s a lot of other stuff down there, too. Like a full guest bedroom with bookshelves and a TV. And my man’s beloved treadmill. Plus my office. And inventory.
Happily, we did a good job arranging things so that I still have plenty of dance space, and we painted it a lovely blue, so it’s much warmer and more pleasant.
Oddly, though, I’ve never much thought of how I decorate the space for the ambiance of my dancing. I mean, I’ve thought of it in terms of arranging things so I have room to pole or space for floorwork, or the mirrors in the right place. But I never thought of the importance of a beautiful space in which to pole.
Which is why I love that Angee514 put up pictures of dancing and a couple of pseudo-plants to brighten that creative spark.
The next phase
While I await my lovely new X-Pole, I am now trying to figure out – again – how I want to lay out the space. I had been planning to move the slippery steel pole upstairs, and leave the titanium gold downstairs, to put the most grip where I do the bulk of my workouts. But when we were marking out the studs on the ceiling, I started thinking how cool it would be to have TWO poles downstairs. Then I could do those fun double-pole dances!
Of course, then I’d have to move the treadmill and a mirror. And maybe the inventory (yes, my inventory is all stacked here, next to my computer. Thank god shorts and tanks don’t take up much space!). But, despite the hassle, that’s what I’m leaning towards. I think it will wind up being the most fun!
The main thing, though, is how to set it up so I can get a decent visual for videos. I am the first to admit I suck at videography, but I do know enough to try for a background that isn’t busy. Not that I can always provide that, with everything in my pole room now, but I figure it’s good to have goals. 
What’s your dance space like?
So, my fabulous pole dancing buddies, what’s up with your dance room?
- Do you decorate it to make it feel more inspirational?
- Do you have to move a lot of things around to find sufficient space?
- Do you have a pole set up at all times?
- Do you prefer certain colors when you’re working out?
- Do you do anything special when you’re shooting a video?
Can’t wait to hear what you all do – I’m hoping it’ll give me some inspiration!
22nd February, 2010 - Posted by PoleSkivvies - 15 Comments
Filed under: Pole Dance Art
It was a piece of sheer luck to discover Katie Mercer’s stick-figure pole dancers! Find them at www.workthatpole.com
You draw totally cool stick figure pole dancing art. How did that idea come to you?
Welllllll, funny story actually that mainly starts by me telling you that I can’t draw! I started sketching as a hobby and late one night (when I couldn’t sleep) found that I had drawn a pole dancer that was not only funny but also recognizable as a pole dancer and just ran with it. Twenty-five poses later, and a lot of friends’ laughs and encouragement, led me to start a line of products that featured these drawings.
Give us the scoop on Work That Pole!
Work that pole … is a line of products that feature surprisingly seductive stick figures in different pole dancing poses. There are t-shirts, bags, pins, postcards, stickers, hats, and shot glasses.
You’re not a pole dancer yourself, but I bet you’ve learned a lot about the pole dance community through your art. What has struck you the most about all the pole dancers you meet?
I worked as a vendor at the USPDF East Coast competition and immediately I was struck with how STRONG y’all are! The competition was amazing and the amount of athletism that goes into your dancing is amazing!
What are your goals for yourself as an artist?
All things considered and, as mentioned before, that I am not really that artistically inclined, I would say just to continue to have fun with sketching and promoting work that pole…
Who is your hero or role model?
My papa.
What are your favorite words of encouragement?
Never give up.
Favorite pizza toppings:
Ricotta cheese and ground beef
Cupcakes or ice cream?
Cupcakes.
What do you like to do when you’re not drawing pole dancers?
Work in the yard, go fishing, and drive around town.
Anything else you’d like to share:
It’s been great to be interviewed. Check us out at www.workthatpole.com!
To get Katie’s awesome pole dance designs on a t-shirt or dance bag (or a bunch of other things!), visit her site and send her an email.
***
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26th November, 2009 - Posted by PoleSkivvies - 1 Comment
Filed under: Pole Dance Art
My new favorite photo
Remember a few weeks ago when I posted the interview with Lindsey, who took such great pole dance photos?
Well, she sent me this photo, taken from THAT workshop – the one where I went all stupid and happy to see Pantera perform.
And she and Pantera both said I could share it with you.
How could I resist?
I love it! It exactly captures how I felt in that moment – totally psyched from seeing Pantera pole, and all excited for the weekend of classes.
Plus, we are so cute. I mean, who could resist us? Standing there, comparing our adorable shortness. (Yes, really, that’s what we’re doing. We rock the pint size thing.)
So that’s why today’s post is a little different.
Well, okay. There’s one more reason.
I’m a little fried.
Not that I’m blowing you off. Or whining (well, I am, but I’m trying to rein that in). I’ve just been busy, trying to make the site more useful. And fun.
Which brings me to the news …
I’ve just written two – count them, TWO – new workbooks. Yes, WORKBOOKS. All about pole dancing. Well, about specific pole dance issues.
Such as, putting some sparkle in your pole dancing. Or, as I like to call it, the Zombie Quick Fix.
And how to deal with nerves about performing. That’s the So Long, Stage Fright! Workbook.
Even better …
I’m putting together a free e-class, called Stage Presence for Pole Dancers.
Actually, I had wanted it to be up and running by now, but I occasionally hit these little technical difficulties. Like the ones where you want to send out lessons, and the thing won’t do it.
Sigh.
But as soon as I fix that, it will be up and ready to go. Then you can get all kinds of information – with lots more detail than a blog post – FREE.
Pretty snazzy stuff.
Which is why today’s post is a bit more of a hodge-podge. But if I can’t tell you what’s new, whoever can I tell?
(And I really wanted to tell someone.)
26th October, 2009 - Posted by PoleSkivvies - 1 Comment
Filed under: Pole Dance Art
Does pole make you feel sexy? Sensual? Utterly glamorous? Let Lindsey of Little Fang Photography capture that passion with her stunning photos.
How did you get started specializing in pole dance and burlesque photography?
After graduating from Kent State University with a BFA I moved to New Hampshire with my loving husband Adam. As an artist, I found myself searching for the artistic avenue I wanted to channel. I began as a student at Bliss Healing Arts Center and I was introduced to an amazing new form of self expression and sensuality. As I learned the fundamentals of both exotic dance and pole, I found myself looking deeper past my physical self, into the inward parts of myself that I had neglected or forgotten. I began realizing that exotic dance in all its many forms is an outlet for female discovery, awareness, and expression. I wanted to gain the privilege as an artist to freeze those personal encounters for each gorgeous woman for a moment to be remembered in their lifetime. It began with my shooting pole portraits for Leela (a gifted and wonderful teacher, friend, and source of encouragement). After the use of my work on the Pole Bliss website, the demand for my pole portraits, boudoir, and burlesque photography became apparent. I began focusing my artistic passion on bringing out the inner Venus of each individual female form I captured with my camera lens, and, with that, Little Fang Photography was born.
What do you recommend pole dancers do to help you take the best photo possible?
The best recommendation I can give is to relax and be yourself! The female form is beautiful and the best way to bring out a woman’s unique beauty is to get her comfortable being herself. Laughter is a constant during my shoots and typically brings out some of the best and most unexpected shots.
What backgrounds do you prefer to use?
My style as a photographer is considered photojournalistic realism, so natural lighting is my preference. In terms of studio work, I am blessed to have the opportunity to shoot in the amazing studios of Bliss Healing Arts Center. The mill buildings provide incomparable natural lighting.
What are the main differences you notice between photographing pole dance, burlesque, and boudoir poses?
I have found that it is not as much the dance form that creates the difference, but instead the individual who lends their own character and uniqueness to each image. Each woman brings a new flavor, style, and might to each shoot, and I am nothing more than a conscious witness capturing her awakening with my camera.
Favorite makeup tip:
Be true to yourself, and build on your personal beauty. I feel that every woman has a rareness that is enchanting, and there is no need to try to be different than who you are. However, that being said, a photo shoot is a great time to live out a fantasy, feel like a movie star for a day. If you love red lipstick and don’t feel comfortable wearing it to work, this is the perfect opportunity to give it a try. If you like to be more natural then come as you are! True beauty shines from within, and it’s my job to capture that.
Barefoot, sneakers, or platform heels?
For me, barefoot. That is who I was, am, and will always be.
Favorite grip enhancer:
I just discovered Mighty Grip and I love it! That and washing my hands really well with Dawn dish soap before any pole dancing activities.
Pole dance move that made you proudest to learn:
I love that I have begun mastering tricks like Superman and Princess, but, in truth, nothing was a greater accomplishment than my discovery of my sexy walk. I never felt as sensual, beautiful, and balanced as I did the first day I learned that I could move in a way that I had thought would be foreign to me forever.
Pole dance pet peeves:
Improper instruction, and the rapid growth of bad technique and form. Pole dance is a graceful balance between strength, exotic movement, and technical form; without one of those important components, the spell is broken and dancers suffer for a lifetime.
Favorite treatment for bruises and sore muscles:
A hot bath in lavender infused Epsom salts, Tramumeel internally, Arnicare Gel externally, and my handsome husband giving me a foot rub!
Who would you most like to have in the audience when you pole dance?
When I perform, I do not have just one person in mind. For me, it is about opening myself to the audience and performing for everyone; choosing to share a piece of myself with the world, being open and proud of the woman that I am becoming.
Who is your hero or role model?
I have many heros and role models, and they range from William Shakespeare, Wyatt Earp, my family, my friends, my dance teachers (Kat and Leela – they rock), God, Frida Kahlo, Audrey Hepburn, and even myself.
What are your favorite words of encouragement?
I have three:
“Feet, why do I need them if I have wings to fly?” -Frida Kahlo
“Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.” -William Shakespeare
“People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone.” –Audrey Hepburn
Favorite pizza toppings:
Roma tomatoes, olive oil, fresh mozzarella cheese, garlic, and tons of fresh cut basil!
Cupcakes or ice cream?
Ice cream … I love ice cream, especially a chocolate, red-dipped cone from Dairy Queen!
What do you like to do when you aren’t taking pictures or playing on the pole?
I enjoy spending time with my husband, going to the movies, out to dinner; his company is without measure, I treasure every single moment with him. That and, of course, snuggling with my Boston Terrier, Sadie.
Anything else you’d like to share:
I am blessed to have the opportunity to have worked, and to continue to work, with so many amazing people through both Little Fang Photography and Bliss Healing Arts Center. I hope that both my photography and exotic dance help to contribute to the continued blossoming of women all over the New England area.
Stop by Lindsey’s site to arrange your personal photo shoot. She is also starting a media company soon, so stay tuned for Little Fang Media.
15th October, 2009 - Posted by PoleSkivvies - 3 Comments
Filed under: Pole Dance Art
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