Pushing art boundaries: Marina Abramović's "The Artist is Present"
In the art world, there are countless instances where artists push the boundaries of creativity, challenging our perceptions and forcing us to question the nature of art itself. One such extraordinary event took place in 2011, when Serbian artist Marina Abramović captivated audiences with her groundbreaking performance piece titled "The Artist is Present" at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. This unique artwork, which centered around silent eye contact, not only drew enormous crowds but also ignited profound discussions about presence and the limitless possibilities of artistic expression.
The Performance:
Photo by Andrew Russeth
For a total of 736 hours over three months, Marina Abramović sat motionless at a table in the MoMA, inviting visitors to take a seat across from her and engage in silent eye contact. The simplicity of the concept was striking—no words, no movement, just a shared moment of connection. Each participant could sit for as long as they desired, becoming a part of the artwork itself. The endurance and commitment displayed by Marina were awe-inspiring, as she remained present and engaged for countless hours, day after day.
The Impact:
"The Artist is Present" had an immediate and profound impact on those who experienced it. The performance drew enormous crowds, with people waiting for hours for a chance to participate. Visitors became emotionally and physically engaged, often shedding tears, laughing, or experiencing a range of intense emotions during their moments of silent connection with Marina. The power of human presence became palpable, transcending language and cultural barriers.
The Boundaries of Art:
This performance challenged the traditional boundaries of art, provoking discussions about what constitutes a work of art and how it should be experienced. By eliminating the need for traditional artistic mediums and focusing solely on the power of presence, Marina blurred the lines between performance, installation, and participatory art. The artist herself became an integral part of the artwork, serving as a catalyst for personal introspection and shared human experiences.
READ MORE:
In this Huffington Post article the author reflects on his visit to see Marina…the time he took her flowers.
Visit marina’s website to learn more about her work.
Watch a documentary on MAX about Marina’s journey creating the work.