Jonathan Rives
About
Jonathan Rives is a multifaceted talent, blending poetry, storytelling, and philosophy into captivating performances that leave audiences spellbound. As a regular speaker at TED conferences and co-host of TEDActive and TEDYouth, he has earned a reputation for his dynamic and thought-provoking presentations. His poems traverse a wide spectrum of themes, from childhood nostalgia to the complexities of love and human connection, often imbued with humor and introspection.
Beyond the stage, Jonathan is also a prolific writer and creator, known for his innovative approach to storytelling.
His pop-up books for both children and adults are proof of his creativity, featuring intricate designs and surprising elements that unfold to reveal hidden treasures. In addition to his literary endeavors, he has curated the ‘Museum of Four in the Morning’, a digital collection exploring the enigmatic time of 4:00 am in art and popular culture.
Jonathan’s performances are characterized by their multimedia richness, seamlessly integrating images, video, and audience engagement to enhance the poetic experience. With a background in education, including work with the hearing impaired, he brings a unique perspective to his artistry, occasionally incorporating sign language into his poetry to broaden its accessibility.
Awards and Recognition
Awards and Recognition
Jonathan appeared on Seasons 3-6 of HBO’s ‘Def Poetry Jam’ and was a member of Team Hollywood, which won the 2004 National Poetry Slam.
Why Jonathan Rives?
As a former educator and course instructor at the International Center of Photography, Jonathan is deeply committed to sharing his knowledge and passion for creativity with others. Whether through his captivating performances or his innovative teaching methods, he continues to inspire and challenge audiences to explore the boundaries of storytelling and expression.
In essence, Jonathan embodies the essence of a modern-day bard, weaving together words, images, and technology to create immersive experiences that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
His ability to transcend traditional artistic boundaries not only makes him an impressive talent in the world of contemporary literature and performance art but also an ideal choice for hosting corporate and private events.
