Book Launch: A Life in Shadows by Constantine Korsovitis

Celebrate the captivating art of shadow puppetry with the launch of A Life in Shadows, a new photography book by renowned Australian photographer Constantine Korsovitis. This stunning collection chronicles Korsovitis' 20-year journey documenting the lives and artistry of the people behind this ancient Southeast Asian tradition.

A Passionate Exploration

Korsovitis' love for documentary photography shines through in A Life in Shadows. Working with both analog film and digital techniques, he captures the essence of shadow puppetry beyond the stage. Since 1999, he has traversed Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia, capturing intimate portraits of puppeteers, puppet makers, musicians, and art experts.

His dedication extends to documenting performances at festivals, showcasing the enduring beauty of this art form in a world undergoing rapid change.

A Journey of Discovery

"In 1999, I had the chance to witness the International Shadow Puppet Festival in Jakarta," Korsovitis reflects. "The performances captivated me for three days, igniting a passion to document this unique art form and the lives of its artists. I wanted to photograph them not just on stage, but in their own spaces, to understand them beyond their art."

Korsovitis' journey highlights the deep respect and passion these artists hold for their craft. His work celebrates their unwavering spirit and the profound sense of wonder, mystery, and history they carry.

A Collector's Item

A Life in Shadows is a visual treasure trove, featuring 168 exquisite photographs that capture over two decades of shadow puppetry artistry. Drawing inspiration from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, this ancient storytelling tradition transcends mere entertainment, weaving together music, philosophy, history, fashion, ritual, religion, and education.

Book Details and Availability

A Life in Shadows is published by River Books and is available for purchase at major bookstores across Bangkok including Kinokuniya and AsiaBooks, as well as directly from River Books' physical store or official website (www.riverbooksbk.com) for 1,200 baht.

Join the book launch event on December 14th at 4:00 PM at Chakrabongse Villas, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok.

For more information, please visit www.riverbooksbk.com