Yesterday I went to the MOMA to see Marina Abramovic': The Artist is Present. This exhibition includes several of her performances over the past 40 years. On display are photos, videos, installations, sound pieces, solo and collaborative works made with Ulay Laysiepen.
Marina reminds me of the intensity of performance art and I am extremely moved by her work. It was mind blowing to see all the footage together and to really capture her experiences of using her body as a piece of art. She pushed herself to the limits and in many cases risked her life in the process. It was a pleasure to have been in her presence yesterday, and she has surely opened my eyes to a different light.
The photo above is from 1974 titled Rhythm 5. This is one experiment that didn't quite end the way she wanted it to. Due to the petroleum-drenched star, the smoke and the fire, Marina lost conscious because of the lack of oxygen. A doctor and some of the audience members realized she was unconscious when the flames came very near to her body and she remained still. Apparently, she commented on her experience saying, "I was very upset because I understood there is a physical limit: when you lose consciousness you can't be present; you can't perform."
If you get a chance, go see her. She's sitting in a chair and she's been sitting in that same chair since March 14th. This is her longest performance and it runs through May 31st.
