the grafters
THE GRAFTERS is a long-term, transdisciplinary performance research project led by Wesleigh Gates, in collaboration with a flexible, transfem-centered ensemble of Los Angeles-based artists.
In both surgery and horticulture, “grafting” describes a process in which new growth becomes possible through acts of cutting and recombining. THE GRAFTERS approaches gender transition — particularly acts of surgical or hormonal intervention — as just such a generative process. Disavowing the various discourses that claim trans bodies as objects of knowledge, THE GRAFTERS plays with authority and autonomy, with composite selves, corporeal becomings, and collective solidarity.
Project participants have included Sasha Forests, Patty Gone, B Gosse, Farrah Hamzeh, Vaughan Larsen, Emily Lucid, Elaina Marino, Joey Navarrete-Medina, Page Person, Pau Pescador, Kevin Ramser, Quei Tann, Tuesday Thomas, Trussie, and Josie Wreck.
THE GRAFTERS has been supported by Los Angeles Performance Practice, NOR RESEARCH STUDIO, and the Center for Provocative Thought.
Project History:
The Grafters (B), Pieter Performance Space/LAX Festival, May 2025
R&D Residency, Los Angeles Performance Practice, Fall 2024
The Grafters (A), Human Resources, February 2024
