Marina Abramović: The Artist Is Present, NEW VIEWS Documentaries and Dialogue
For 40 years, Serbian-born Marina Abramović has redefined art by using her own body as the medium. Often pushing the boundaries of extreme endurance, this art world superstar creates performances that challenge, shock and move viewers. Matthew Akers’ intelligent portrait offers a compelling look into Abramović’s many selves as she prepares for the biggest show of her career, the 2010 Museum of Modern Art retrospective. Spirited, emotional, pragmatic, reflective, Abramović speaks with eloquent clarity and humor about the core tenets of her artistic practice, namely always being in the present moment. Akers’ camera also captures the hard-working artist cooking at home, reconnecting with her former art and life partner, posing for a fashion shoot, and training an ensemble of young performers. An audience award winner at the Berlin Film Festival, Marina Abramović: The Artist Is Present provides articulate insight into the oft-misunderstood medium of performance art while taking penetrating look into the eyes–and humanity–of an extraordinary artist. (U.S., 2012, 106m). Q&A with Director Matthew Akers immediately following.
A recent renaissance in documentary filmmaking is having a major impact on public discourse. The Aspen Institute and Aspen Film will add to this discourse through NEW VIEWS, a series featuring critically acclaimed documentaries and conversations with special guests related to the film.
NEW VIEWS: Documentaries & Dialogue is made possible by generous support from Leonard Lauder and Michael and Jane Eisner.
Tickets, $20, at www.aspenshowtix.com.