Malique Pye 2026

Abstract

I have found community in more ways than one photographing dance. Growing up, my influences came from many different elements and outlets. One of the most impactful influences has come from the Mexican and Mexican-American communities I have been privileged enough to be welcomed into. I began Baile to further explore, learn, and photograph the art and dance of Ballet Folklorico. As the project continued, my relationship with the dance community strengthened, and in doing so I was again welcomed into the Mexican and Mexican-American community around me. Through conversations, photographing, and being present with the community, I found myself at home again. Baile started with the intention of documenting ballet folklorico and focusing on the perspective of the dancers, and it gradually shifted to becoming more personal. It became a celebration of the community and culture that has embraced and welcomed me from my childhood years to now. Highlighting the moments that, together, create the final product performance and strengthening a representation that the community can feel seen. Baile is a photographic documentation of the traditional dance genre of Ballet Folklorico. Focusing on the perspective of the dancer to achieve a better representation of what it means to dance and be around ballet folklorico.