The artist is present

Definition

The phrase 'the artist is present' refers to a groundbreaking performance art piece by Marina Abramović that took place at the Museum of Modern Art in 2010, where she sat silently at a table and engaged with visitors through eye contact. This performance emphasized the power of presence and connection between the artist and the audience, challenging traditional boundaries in art. It embodies the essence of performance as conceptual art, highlighting emotional engagement and the physical act of being present as a crucial component of the artistic experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'The artist is present' was performed for 736 hours over 75 days, allowing Abramović to connect deeply with each participant who sat across from her.
2. This performance invited visitors to sit silently across from Abramović, creating a powerful exchange through presence, silence, and emotional vulnerability.
3. Marina Abramović's work is often described as transformative, as many participants reported profound emotional experiences during their time with her.
4. The piece questioned the nature of art itself, pushing boundaries on how it can be experienced and perceived beyond traditional forms like painting or sculpture.
5. Abramović's performance received widespread media attention, elevating her status in the contemporary art world and influencing discussions around performance as a vital art form.

Review Questions

• How does 'the artist is present' redefine the relationship between the artist and the audience in contemporary art?
  • 'The artist is present' redefines this relationship by transforming it into an interactive experience where viewers become active participants rather than passive observers. By engaging directly with Marina Abramović through eye contact and shared silence, participants experienced a deep emotional connection that challenged conventional norms of spectatorship. This performance emphasizes the importance of presence and interaction in art, inviting audiences to reflect on their own emotions and experiences.
• What conceptual ideas are explored through Marina Abramović's 'the artist is present' performance, and how do they relate to broader movements in art?
  • 'The artist is present' explores concepts such as vulnerability, emotional connection, and the nature of presence in art. These ideas resonate with broader movements like performance art and conceptual art, which prioritize ideas over traditional aesthetics. The work exemplifies how performance can create intimate connections between artist and audience while questioning established boundaries in artistic practices. It highlights how the act of being present can become an artwork itself.
• Evaluate the impact of 'the artist is present' on contemporary views of performance art and its role in the modern art world.
  • 'The artist is present' significantly impacted contemporary views on performance art by showcasing its potential to evoke deep emotional responses and create meaningful interactions. This performance not only elevated Marina Abramović's status but also opened doors for other artists to explore presence and audience engagement as key components of their work. By positioning performance as a legitimate and powerful form of artistic expression, it has inspired a generation of artists to experiment with new ways of connecting with audiences, ultimately reshaping the landscape of modern art.

Related terms

Performance Art: A live art form that combines visual art with theatrical elements, often emphasizing the artist's body and presence as a medium.

Conceptual Art: An art movement where the idea or concept behind the artwork is prioritized over traditional aesthetic values, often challenging norms.

Audience Engagement: The interaction and relationship between artists and viewers, which can transform how art is experienced and understood.