Scratching, by Twyla Tharp

What is scratching according to Twyla Tharp and how does she suggest we do it?

Twyla Tharp describes scratching as a way to come up with ideas by digging through everyday things to find something that stimulates your artistic vision. As a choreographer, Tharp "scratches" by watching the movements of others. Then, she has a group of many different movements in her head which she puts together and forms a dance piece. She also says that you cannot put a limit to scratching. You have to let your ideas flow freely, and not be afraid to try something new without worrying that it may be wrong. She says that anything can be fixed at the end, but it is important to experiment.

Knowing how you work in the studio, what methods, techniques, or tricks can you see yourself using from Ms. Tharp's suggestions?

In the studio, I can use Tharp's methods by becoming more free with my initial ideas, and taking more time to experiment with different things before I begin a piece. I can also use my surroundings more, and take what I see everyday into consideration for an art piece. I often worry about "taking it overboard" with my art. Tharp's message is to not think about such things because it inhibits creativity.


She's talking about dance. What would scratching look like in the studio?

Tharp said that she takes everyday movements and steps to organize a dance piece in her head; This is the same for art. You can take images from what you see everyday, and combine them to create a piece, or generate more ideas based on something that stood out to you as an artist.