Director, Glenn Lowry: Welcome to Marina Abramović: The Artist is Present. I’m Glenn Lowry, Director of The Museum of Modern Art.
Born in 1946, Abramović was raised in communist Yugoslavia. Over the past four decades, Abramović has developed a significant body of conceptual and performance work that explores physical and mental limits and incorporates the element of time as a tool to achieve transformation and transcendence.
On this tour you will hear from the artist herself, who is performing a new piece in the second floor Marron Atrium.
Artist, Marina Abramović: The title of the show is Artist Is Present, and it's funny thinking how in old days, when you get invitation for the show of the painting or sculpture, there will be always invitation written, "Artist is present for the opening.” But, here we go even a step further [with] one new piece which I will perform in the Atrium, with the same title as the show, Artist Is Present. I will be present here with you for entire time of the exhibition.
Glenn Lowry: This performance retrospective is comprised of audio, video, and photographic elements. In addition, forty-two performers selected by Abramović will reperform five of her historic pieces. Because of the live performances in this exhibition, the artist has a special request.
Artist, Marina Abramović: I would appreciate if you would do the following: walking mindfully, remain silent, and no photographs.
Glenn Lowry: For instructions on how to use this Acoustiguide, please press 1-0-1 and the PLAY button.