Language of the Axis

In Language of the Axis Mary Fulkerson (who was head of dance at Dartington for a decade in its heyday) explores the interplay between body awareness and movement. The book is in three parts: In A Look at the Body, Fulkerson offers a foundational understanding of how bones and muscles interact to create balance and movement. She emphasises the importance of body images -- concepts that facilitate ease of action by enhancing awareness of one’s physical structure. Easy Action offers practical exercises to embody these anatomical principles through specific movements. Each action is meticulously described, allowing readers to engage deeply with their bodies and experience the sensations that arise from proper alignment and movement. Last, in Seeing a Context, Fulkerson shares her personal experiences, showing how her ideas can be applied in real life. She introduces a new language -- one that transcends words and speaks to the sensations experienced within the body. This language fosters a dialogue between thought and action, promoting holistic self-awareness. The book is not just a guide to physical movement; it’s an invitation to cultivate a deeper connection between mind and body

At Dartington in the early 70s, Mary paved the way, along with Steve Paxton, for Dartington to become a truly international, innovative centre for experimental dance. Mary is credited with being responsible, possibly more than anyone else, for bringing the idea of what we now call somatic dance to Europe. (Somatic dance meant dance that focused more on the internal physicality of the performer, rather than the effect on the audience. She later held a leading position at SNDO in Amsterdam (1987-1989) and co-founded the CNDO in Arnhem.