The artist is present

Definition

The artist is present is a pivotal performance art piece created by Marina Abramović in 2010, where she sat silently across from participants at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City for a total of 736 hours. This work explores themes of presence, connection, and the power of human interaction, emphasizing the emotional exchange between the artist and audience. It challenges traditional boundaries of performance art by focusing on the act of being present in the moment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marina Abramović's 'The Artist Is Present' was part of a retrospective exhibition that celebrated her 40-year career in performance art.
2. During the performance, participants could sit across from Abramović for as long as they wished, leading to profound emotional exchanges and moments of vulnerability.
3. The piece garnered significant media attention and sparked discussions about intimacy, presence, and the nature of artistic engagement.
4. Abramović's work challenged the conventional expectations of art by making the act of witnessing a crucial part of the artistic experience.
5. The performance concluded with Abramović standing up at the end, signaling a transformative moment that highlighted the impact of human connection.

Review Questions

• How does 'The Artist Is Present' redefine the relationship between performer and audience in performance art?
  • 'The Artist Is Present' redefines this relationship by inviting direct, face-to-face interactions between Abramović and participants, making their emotional experiences integral to the work. This setup breaks down barriers traditionally separating artists from viewers, allowing for a shared moment that transcends typical art appreciation. The act of being present and engaged creates a unique bond, making each interaction meaningful and significant.
• Discuss the significance of emotional connection in 'The Artist Is Present' and its impact on audience members.
  • 'The Artist Is Present' emphasizes emotional connection as a fundamental aspect of performance art. By sitting silently with participants, Abramović facilitates intimate encounters that often evoke vulnerability and reflection. Audience members report feelings of catharsis or transformation during these moments, demonstrating how direct human interaction can profoundly affect individuals. This focus on emotional exchange underscores the importance of presence in creating impactful art experiences.
• Evaluate how 'The Artist Is Present' reflects broader themes within contemporary performance art and societal issues.
  • 'The Artist Is Present' reflects broader themes such as human connection, presence, and vulnerability within contemporary performance art. It highlights societal issues related to isolation in modern life and the yearning for authentic interactions. By drawing attention to these themes, Abramović not only challenges artistic conventions but also invites discourse on how technology and modernity can impede genuine human experiences. This evaluation encourages further exploration into how performance art can serve as a platform for social commentary.

Related terms

Performance Art: A live art form where the artist's actions are central to the work, often involving audience interaction and emphasizing the experience over traditional artistic products.

Durational Performance: A type of performance that extends over a significant period, testing the limits of both the performer and audience, often creating a deeper sense of engagement.

Interactivity: The degree to which an audience can engage with and influence a work of art, often seen in performance art where the audience's presence becomes part of the experience.