jakob & imani

Commissioned by Baryshnikov Arts and the Hudson Yards Hell’s Kitchen Alliance

October 3 from 12–3 and 4–7 PM

Bella Abzug Park, Hudson Yards

With support from the Hudson Yards Hell’s Kitchen Alliance, Baryshnikov Arts will premiere jakob & imani, a performance art piece created by choreographer Imani Gaudin and visual artist Jakob Vitale. Exploring the symbiotic relationship between graffiti and contemporary dance, this site-specific work will investigate how movement shapes the perceived meaning of graffiti art, and conversely, how the visual elements of graffiti influence the dancer’s physical expression. Through improvisation and audience interaction, jakob & imani will use the large open space of Bella Abzug Park as the location for exploration around a central graffiti mural. This performance will take place throughout the day of October 3, 2024, and will be presented free of charge.

Directions to Bella Abzug Park:

Enter between W. 34^th St and W. 35^th St, along Hudson Boulevard E. The performance will take place throughout this block of the park.

Take the 7 train to Hudson Yards, or the M34-SBS to 34^th St and Hudson Boulevard E.

The park is also a short walk from 34^th Street Penn Station (A/C/E/1/2/3/LIRR/NJ Transit).

Credits:

Concept/Direction: Imani Gaudin & Jakob Vitale

Performers: Imani Gaudin, Marcus Sarjeant, Jakob Vitale

Set Construction: Louis James Woodworks, Jakob Vitale

Set Design: Imani Gaudin & Jakob Vitale

Sound-score: Imani Gaudin & Jakob Vitale

Photography: Sinematic Studios

Costume Design: Imani Gaudin & Jakob Vitale

Imani Gaudin and Jakob Vitale are a New York City–based performing arts duo, merging their distinct talents into a mesmerizing collaboration of movement and graffiti art.

Imani Gaudin and Jakob Vitale are a New York City–based performing arts duo, merging their distinct talents into a mesmerizing collaboration of movement and graffiti art. Both are proud graduates of Purchase College with BFAs in dance and visual arts. Gaudin’s years of dedication to mastering various styles of movement, coupled with an innate ability to turn movement structures into choreography, have earned her recognition in the dance community. Vitale is a visionary visual artist renowned for his complex scenes, allegories, and narrations on urban environments of New York City and Los Angeles. Together, their synergy creates a unique sensory experience, where the movement of dance and graffiti harmonize, bringing to life narratives that transcend the boundaries of traditional art forms. Their collaborative performances captivate audiences, sparking conversations about the fusion of movement and visual art. With their innovative approach to artistic expression, Imani Gaudin and Jakob Vitale continue to push boundaries and inspire audiences with their dynamic collaborations.