In 1974, an artist allowed the public to interact with her body however they chose for six hours. The experience left her feeling ‘ready to die.’
Marina Abramović is a Serbian conceptual and performance artist known for pushing the boundaries of the body and mind, as well as exploring the dynamic between artist and audience
In her most renowned performance, titled ‘Rhythm 0,’ Abramović set up 72 objects on a table and invited spectators to use them on her in any way they wished.
For six hours, Abramović remained motionless, stating that she would take ‘full responsibility’ for whatever the public chose to do to her.
The 72 objects included items ranging from flowers, perfume, and apples to more ominous objects such as razors and knives.
Initially, the audience’s response was relatively mild. Some simply observed as Abramović stood still, while others gave her roses and held her hands.
However, as the performance progressed, things took a darker turn when the audience realized there were no limits to their actions.
