Hetain Patel Britain
1 Minute Study of 10 Beats
A sensory encounter of rhythmic cycles and percussive languages.
The rhythms usually performed by hands on the tabla drums, are translated into full body movements as the torso is marked with Kanku (the red pigment traditionally used in Hindu ceremonies to mark a dot on the forehead). The chanting and clapping form part of an ancient percussive language, which in this instance, shapes the 10 beats called Jhaptaal.
- Camera, Edit & Direction:
- Hetain Patel
- Performer & Vocals:
- Hetain Patel
Hetain Patel
Hetain Patel
In 2004, having graduated just a year earlier, Hetain Patel received the decibel award from Arts Council England, East Midlands. Since then, his photography, video and live works have been exhibited nationally and internationally.
Hetain’s work examines various sensory forms of language, communication and cultural identity. Often using his own body as a site for these discussions, he strives to find a connection with his heritage through the exploration of physics, rituals and Indian classical music. Employing techniques ranging from fashion photography to tabla drumming, he is interested in processes. This he believes is often where work becomes less culture specific and more about the general communication between bodies.
Having just completed a two-year residency at Lakeside Arts Centre Nottingham, and continuing to tour his Sine Language exhibition nationally with beatboxer Jason Singh, Hetain is currently working on a number of new collaborations with dancers, musicians and electrical engineers.