Full Circle

2026
blue/white service shirt, winter mess jacket, individually dyed layers of nylon tutu netting, blue nylon ladies scarf, white cotton drill, gold service dress buttons, gold service dress caduceus, gold service dress eagles
65 x 100 x 100 cm

During initial training, core organisational values of tradition, discipline and training are continuously emphasised until they are part of the everyday experience. After leaving the air force, I felt isolated. The community I took for granted was no longer easily accessible. Relocating interstate was an exercise in navigating loneliness and community disconnection. Over time, I came to feel safe in the world of classical ballet, thanks to my daughters and their teachers. Costuming became my anchor, something I could offer to others. In costuming dancers, I must understand the history behind the choreography while acknowledging the discipline and training required to perform the piece. This classical ballet tutu embraces my transition from air force to dance costuming, and pays homage to both.