NEW YORK, NY.- "Arthur Jafa: Live Evil," edited by Flora Katz and Vassilis Oikonomopoulos, is an indispensable and richly illustrated catalog that offers an expansive and deeply insightful survey of the acclaimed American filmmaker and artist's compelling work. This book is a testament to Jafa's decades-long practice, which, as Wes Hill aptly puts it, serves as "a counterpunch to anyone who wants to put people of color in their place."

The publication masterfully navigates Jafa's multifaceted oeuvre, showcasing his powerful video art, installations, and other key works. What emerges is a profoundly unsettling yet lyrical exploration of images and histories. Jafa's unique approach brings together affective memories tied to US history, violence, repression, and modalities of survival, examining how these manifest in the production and dissemination of images, music, sound, and time-based media. At its core, "Live Evil" delves into Jafa's profound reflections on the ontology of race and Blackness, making it an incredibly timely and vital contribution to contemporary discourse.

Beyond the stunning reproductions of Jafa's art, the book features a collection of thoughtful essays from a distinguished group of contributors, including Norman Ajari, Tina M. Campt, Saidiya Hartman, and Fred Moten, among others. These texts delve into the philosophical, historical, and artistic implications of Jafa's practice, providing rich context and critical analysis. Additionally, a series of revealing conversations between Jafa and key practitioners in cinema, arts, and theory offer direct insights into his artistic process and profound conceptual framework.

"Arthur Jafa: Live Evil" stands as a monumental work, published in conjunction with LUMA Arles, celebrating an artist whose impact continues to resonate globally. For anyone interested in contemporary art, critical race theory, cinema, or the enduring power of images, this book is not merely recommended—it's essential reading.