Jay Pather, Performance, and Spatial Politics in South Africa

Jay Pather is a choreographer, theater director, curator, and creative artist who is considered a visionary in the South African and global arts scene. He is known as a master of space, site, and location, and his performance practices are interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary, collaborative, and multimedia. The book explores how Pather's work places him in the center of global trends that cross borders between dance, theater, visual art, and technology. It also offers a vision of an artist who is strategically aware of the spatiality of human life, understands the human body as the nation's collective history, and is a symbol of hope and resilience after the trauma of violent segregation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 436 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2021
Publisher: Indiana University Press

Jay Pather, a renowned choreographer, theater director, curator, and creative artist in contemporary global performance, has been the subject of a comprehensive monograph titled "Performance and Spatial Politics in South Africa." This groundbreaking work provides the first in-depth exploration of Pather's prolific career, while also situating him within the vibrant South African and international arts scenes. Recognized as a visionary, Pather's artistic practices have positioned him at the forefront of global trends that are interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary, collaborative, and multimedia, transcending boundaries between dance, theater, visual art, and technology.

In his examination, author Ketu H. Katrak delves into the depth and breadth of Pather's artistic journey, highlighting his significant contributions to the field. Pather, a South African of Indian heritage, is celebrated for his mastery of space, site, and location. Katrak explores how Pather's performance practices align him with global trends that are characterized by their interdisciplinary nature, collaboration, and the fusion of multiple media. These trends transcend geographical boundaries, creating a rich tapestry of artistic expression.

Through his work, Pather challenges conventional notions of performance and spatiality, inviting audiences to explore the interconnectedness of human experiences and the complexities of our world. He understands the human body as the collective history of a nation, and his performances evoke a sense of empathy, understanding, and resilience in the face of trauma. Pather's artistic vision is one of hope and transformation, offering a symbol of unity and progress in a society that has weathered the scars of violent segregation.

"Performance and Spatial Politics in South Africa" serves as a testament to Pather's artistic brilliance and his ability to push boundaries while staying true to his South African roots. It provides a valuable insight into the artist's creative process, his influences, and the profound impact his work has had on audiences and the broader arts community. This monograph is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary performance, African studies, and the intersection of art and politics.

Weight: 660g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253053688