Marina Abramović Explores New Dimensions of Digital Art
Marina Abramović, renowned for her innovative performance art, is now venturing into the realm of digital creativity. In a recent episode of The Artsy Podcast, the iconic artist discusses the launch of her new NFT project, her efforts to infuse mindfulness into the digital space, and her aspirations to bridge generational gaps through her art. Additionally, Artsy editors Casey Lesser and Arun Kakar provide insights into Frieze Week in New York, an exciting time filled with art fairs, gallery openings, and must-see exhibitions. Tune in to the podcast and read a highlighted excerpt from Abramović’s conversation below. This episode was recorded by Alex Kenning, produced by Olivia Horn and Grant Irving, and edited by Grant Irving.
Connecting Through Digital Art
Arun Kakar: You’ve referenced your NFT project as a means to engage with the public. What inspired this idea?
Marina Abramović: My journey began as a painter, which often felt isolating since I would spend time in the studio, creating artwork that eventually went to galleries. Once displayed, the audience’s interaction was limited to viewing the piece on the wall, leaving me disconnected from them. Discovering performance art was transformative; it electrified my entire being and opened my eyes to a more profound and engaging experience. The essence of performance lies in its ephemeral nature—one must be present to fully appreciate it, allowing for a deeper emotional connection. I’ve always felt a strong pull towards younger audiences, particularly those aged 14 to 17, who are often captivated by technology and the digital landscape. Yet, my work possesses an emotional depth that resonates with them. I pondered how I could further connect with this demographic. My goal was to create something within their digital environment that offers a meditative experience, teaching them the value of silence, the concept of doing nothing, and the importance of being present. This drive was a significant factor in my decision to explore this new frontier.
Harmony of Digital, Spiritual, and Artistic Elements
A.K.: The intersection of your life experiences, the digital world, and spirituality is intriguing. How do you perceive these elements interacting within your project?
M.A.: They exist in perfect harmony. I find the concept of an avatar particularly compelling; avatars possess extraordinary abilities that ordinary humans do not. Throughout my career, I have explored the boundaries of the human body and the extent of consciousness—pushing the limits of endurance and long-duration performance. However, as a human, I am still bound by physical limitations—I cannot fly, walk through fire, or levitate. Yet, my avatar transcends these boundaries, enabling me to explore and play in ways that are not possible in reality. The digital world offers a unique opportunity for playfulness, which is vital to my artistic expression.
The Legacy of Marina Abramović
Marina Abramović stands as one of the preeminent performance artists of our time. By incorporating elements of duration, pain, danger, and audience interaction, she challenges the conventional relationship between art and its viewers. Her notable exhibitions include Documenta in 1977, 1982, and 1992, as well as the Venice Biennale in 1976 and 1997, the latter earning her the prestigious Golden Lion. In her acclaimed 2010 retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art titled “The Artist Is Present,” visitors engaged in silent exchanges with her. Recently, she made history as the first female artist to hold a solo exhibition in the Royal Academy’s main galleries during its 255-year existence. Abramović also established the Marina Abramović Institute, dedicated to promoting performance art on a global scale.
Join the Conversation on Art
As editors at the leading online art marketplace, we engage with art daily, exploring and interpreting its myriad forms. We invite you to join our ongoing dialogue. Together with influential figures from fashion, music, design, and beyond, we are unraveling the complexities of the art world and its significance in our cultural landscape—one episode at a time.
