Bali Magical Dances: A Journey into the Enchanting World of Balinese Dance

Bali Magical Dances by Margarete Merkle is a stunning collection of photographs that captures the essence of Balinese dance. With over 200 full-color images, this book is a must-have for anyone interested in Balinese culture, dance, or photography.

Merkle's photographs are a testament to her deep understanding of Balinese dance. She has spent years studying and photographing this art form, and her work reflects her passion and commitment.

The Photographs

The photographs in Bali Magical Dances are simply stunning. Merkle has captured the beauty and grace of Balinese dance in all its forms. Her images are both technically proficient and artistically evocative.

The book is divided into four chapters, each of which focuses on a different aspect of Balinese dance. The chapters are:

• The Sacred Dances: These dances are performed in temples and other sacred places. They are often used to invoke the gods or to celebrate religious holidays.
• The Court Dances: These dances were originally performed in the courts of Balinese kings and queens. They are characterized by their elegance and sophistication.
• The Folk Dances: These dances are performed by the common people of Bali. They are often used to express joy, sorrow, or other emotions.
• The Contemporary Dances: These dances are a fusion of traditional Balinese dance with modern influences. They are often experimental and innovative.

Each chapter features a selection of Merkle's photographs, along with a brief description of the dance that is depicted. The photographs are accompanied by informative captions that provide additional information about the dance, the dancers, and the costumes.

The Author

Margarete Merkle is a German photographer who has lived in Bali for over 20 years. She is a passionate advocate for Balinese culture, and her work has helped to raise awareness of this unique art form.

Merkle has published several books of photography, including Bali: The Dance of the Gods (2006) and Bali: Sacred and Serene (2012). Her work has been exhibited in galleries around the world.

Bali Magical Dances is a beautiful and informative book that is sure to appeal to anyone interested in Balinese culture, dance, or photography. Merkle's photographs are a stunning testament to the beauty and grace of this ancient art form.

If you are looking for a book that will transport you to the enchanting world of Balinese dance, then look no further than Bali Magical Dances. This book is a must-have for anyone who loves dance, photography, or Bali.