The video was inspired by my personal experience competing in figure skating for 13 years and an article written by Finnish figure skater, Kiira Korpi.
“Am I the only one having mixed feelings when watching these young skaters? I’m in AWE of their incredible skills but i also can’t stop thinking what’s the human cost of this level of performance at this age.”
The video typology incorporates elements such as the Biellmann spin and the color of the dresses (red and pink), both of which are commonly associated with femininity. The background commentary, typical of television broadcasts, reflects the internal dialogue and self-doubt that skaters may experience, even if they do not hear it while performing.
The videos demonstrate a progression in the skaters' skill levels, with the portrayal of perfection evolving as the viewer advances through the ranks. While the skill levels rise in the visual space, the commentary follows an inverse decline in the auditory space. The discussions of potential and promise move toward themes of performance, pressure, and perfection. The music serves as a metaphorical "box" that conceals the "messy wrapping" of the commentary, symbolizing the sport's outward appearance of orderliness despite its underlying complexities.