Performing Arousal: Precarious Bodies and Frames of Representation

This book explores arousal as a mode of theoretical and artistic inquiry, looking at how it is portrayed in various artistic disciplines and cultural contexts. It examines the relationship between arousal and the ethics of representation, the pleasures of voyeurism, the political impact of aroused bodies, and how it can turn the body into a mediated object.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 16 December 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This book delves into the realm of arousal as a captivating mode of theoretical and artistic exploration, aimed at inspiring innovative approaches to staging and examining bodies in performance across diverse artistic disciplines, modern history, and cultural contexts. By examining traditional drama and theatre, as well as visual arts, performance activism, and arts-based community engagement, this collection explores the intricate interplay between arousing images and the frameworks of their representability. It investigates arousal as a multifaceted project of social, scientific, cultural, and artistic experimentation, shedding light on how our perception of arousal has evolved over the past century. Through its exploration of "what arouses" in relation to the ethics of representation, the book delves into the connections between arousal and the pleasures of voyeurism, emphasizing the political implications of aroused bodies. Moreover, it explores how arousal can transform the body into a mediated object, blurring the boundaries between performer and audience. By offering a rich tapestry of insights and perspectives, this book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, artists, and anyone interested in the dynamic and multifaceted nature of arousal in performance.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 147 x 224 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350155633