Few artists in the world today evoke such strong emotions and reactions as the pioneer of body and performance art Marina Abramović. This summer Louisiana presents the first major retrospective presentation of Abramović's work in Europe.
Marina Abramović has inscribed herself in the history of art as one of the pioneers of body and performance art, and since the 1970s – with her own body and energy as her primary material – she has developed one of contemporary art's most radical and uncompromising practices.
Abramović is best known for physically and mentally demanding performance works that are often transgressive and revolve around the body, gender, energy, time, pain, presence, and identity. Her performances range from powerful, violent, and risky actions to quieter exchanges of energy and meetings with the audience. And especially in recent years, we the audience have increasingly become key players in her works.
The exhibition at Louisiana comprises more than 100 works and spans more than five decades – from early concept sketches, paintings and sound works to presentations of the artist’s performances – including her collaboration with former partner Ulay. Reperformances of an early work form part of the exhibition as well.
Marina Abramović – The Cleaner has been developed in a dialogue with the artist and is organized by Moderna Museet, Stockholm, in collaboration with Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Henie Onstad Kunstsenter and Bundeskunsthalle, Bonn.
The performance part of the exhibition is supported by the Bikuben Foundation and the Danish Arts Foundation.