The creation of 'Threads' was a collaborative effort, carefully crafted as part of a screen dance residency program. This program was generously supported by two esteemed organisations: the JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience and the Centre for Creative Arts. Two notable Mozambican artists, Pak Ndjamena and Ivan Burros, skilfully coordinated the residency, providing invaluable support and guidance throughout both the pre-production and post-production phases.

“THREADS” radiates a vibrant and lively aura with its textured and colourful elements that embody the essence of earth, light, colour, and rhythm. The film offers a personal reflection of my emotions and experiences regarding the concept of home. “THREADS” explores the intricate threads that connect us- the ones that pass through us, dissecting and intertwining our lives. The film begins at the UKZN Howard College bus stop, highlighting the evolution of migration. It then journeys through various locations on the campus, leaving traces of our presence behind. From footprints to colourful beads, we decorated the space and left behind our (in)tangible essence. As our lineage is embedded and expressed in our physical forms, this film uncovers the invisible yet profoundly felt core of our humanity and history that connects us all.

"Gift" is a film created in collaboration with Miwaza Jemimah, an accomplished Japanese filmmaker and photographer. The film explores the intangible gifts that come and go throughout life. It delves into themes of love, family, ageing, death, and existence, forming a complex web of our life experiences. The narrative reveals how the concept of gifts is often found in the most unexpected places. It weaves a story of resilience within memory and the body, reflecting on the idea that we cannot hold onto the precious "gifts" that life presents us.

Credits:

Conceived by: Kristi-Leigh Gresse and Miwaza Jemimah 

Filmed by: Kristi-Leigh Gresse

Edited by: Miwaza Jemimah 

Sound design by: Miwaza Jemimah

Performer and choreographer: Kristi-Leigh Gresse

"Knock-Off" addresses perceptions of femininity and the meaning of being "feminine." It explores how the definitions and expectations imposed on us at birth influence how we navigate the world, shedding light on societal “norms” and expectations of what it means to be born a woman.

The project was conceptualised and created in 2021. 

It was produced and directed by Lorin Sookool, with conceptualisation and choreography by Kristi-Leigh Gresse, supported by the National Arts Council.

This film explores an artist’s state of mind in isolation. It takes viewers on a journey through the complexities of the mind when separated from the community and thrust into solitude.

Created during the Covid pandemic, when the world faced widespread lockdowns, this film reflects my personal struggle with being confined to a small room day after day. I found myself anxiously waiting to hear the President's words as he addressed the nation with, "Hello, Fellow South Africans," hoping that his next sentence would bring us closer to freedom from isolation. Unfortunately, the solitude continued for months, and the echoes of raging silence pulsed through my mind. 

Dancer/Choreographer: Kristi-Leigh Gresse

Film and Edited by: Kristi-Leigh Gresse

Supported by Jomba! Comptampory Dance Experience and ArtSource 031

Fellow was first created and screened at the Jomba! Contemporary Dance Experience 2020 as part of their Digital Edge Program. ‪@Jomba_Dance‬