On Pointe by Drake Murray

Creative Feature: “On Pointe” Ballerina Series by Drake Murray

Tunai Jones for "On Pointe" by Drake Murray

Tunai Jones for “On Pointe” by Drake Murray

“On Pointe” is an on-going series envisioned by Philly-based Drake Murray before he even picked up the art of photography.

In order to extend beyond superficiality–“ballerinas as beautiful people doing beautiful things”–Murray forced himself to explore a deeper understanding of ballet and the women who master it.

“Each ballerina, as is customary of each individual, has a story to tell,” he told Sinuous Magazine. “One of triumph, hardship, obstacles, and achievements. Hearing those stories, and documenting who they belong to through photographs, is my continued inspiration for the ‘On Pointe’ series.”

Kate Orlando for "On Pointe" by Drake Murray

Kate Orlando for “On Pointe” by Drake Murray [Click to Enlarge]

The series comes at a time when brown ballerinas like Misty Copeland are breaking barriers, not only within their craft but in pop culture as well.

Currently featuring dancers Kate Orlando and Tunai Jones , “On Pointe” will build over the course of a few years, and eventually turn into a book.

See more below and follow Drake Murray’s work on Instagram at @thepolitehooligan.

Tunai Jones for "On Pointe" by Drake Murray

Tunai Jones for “On Pointe” by Drake Murray

Kate Orlando for "On Pointe" by Drake Murray

Kate Orlando for “On Pointe” by Drake Murray

Tunai Jones for "On Pointe" by Drake Murray

Tunai Jones for “On Pointe” by Drake Murray

Kate Orlando for "On Pointe" by Drake Murray

Kate Orlando for “On Pointe” by Drake Murray [Click to Enlarge]

Tunai Jones for "On Pointe" by Drake Murray

Tunai Jones for “On Pointe” by Drake Murray

Kate Orlando for "On Pointe" by Drake Murray

Kate Orlando for “On Pointe” by Drake Murray [Click to Enlarge]