Katie Orlinsky: The Aqualillies

Artist’s Statement:

The Aqualillies are an underwater dance company that has merged the art of ballet with the athleticism of synchronized swimming. Founder Mesha Kussman refers to the Aqualillies as â€œthe Radio City Rockettes of the water. Some of the Aqualillies are former competitive swimmers that have learned how to dance, and others are professional dancers that have learned how to swim. They began giving synchronized swimming fitness workshops and performing in pools at private events in Hollywood, and have now expanded into groups across the country.

Artist’s Bio:

Brooklyn, NY

Katie Orlinsky is a photographer from New York City. She received a Bachelors degree in Political Science and Latin American Studies from the Colorado College and a Masters degree in Journalism from Columbia University. Katie’s long-held interest in international politics and a desire to raise awareness on social issues originally led her to photography, and after college she moved to Mexico where she got her start as a photographer. Since then Katie has photographed assignments and personal projects all over the world. Katie is currently a contributor with Reportage by Getty Images. She regularly works for the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Le Monde and a variety of international magazines and non-profit organizations. In April 2013 Katie was selected as one of the PDN 30’s New and Emerging Photographers to Watch, and over the past four years she has won numerous awards such as the Alexia Foundation First Place Student Grant in 2012, the POYI Emerging Vision Incentive Award in 2011, the 2010 Prix Ani-PixPalace Grant and the 2009 Visa Pour Lâ€™image Coup de Couer (Judge’s choice award).