There are now many more types of performance than a simple theatre production. Performing arts and visual arts began as being two different types of art. However, these two forms are now combined to create complex performances, which include various elements of performance such as, spoken word, dance, singing, music, technology and more.

The space in which art is created and expressed is an important part of a performance. Some performer’s like to feel a connection with the space, to have a sense of the energy which surrounds them, this is to generate a deeper relationship for both themselves and their audience.

Marina Abramovic, a performance artist, finds specific spaces where she feels an energy so she can reach a higher state of consciousness in her performances. In 2010 her performance, An Artist Is Present, took place in the Museum of Modern Art. Galleries and Museums are becoming popular performance spaces for many artists, typically artists showing exhibitions or installations.

The Tate Modern Gallery in London has three large oil tanks that are in the foundations of the building, these will ‘become a unique setting for artists’ installations and performances, including, dance, music, the spoken word and film’ (Online www.tate.org.uk).

Art is more accessible in today’s society, this is partly due to the performance spaces broadening out but is is also due to the media and the internet, in particular popular social networking sites such as, Facebook and Twitter. With the help of the internet, it is now possible for an audience to access a performance from the comfort of their own home. The performer can be in one location and their audience in another, this opens up many opportunities for performers to explore.

The familiar question at the end of a show is ‘Did you like it?’, a common response, ‘Yeah but I didn’t really understand it’. There is a misconception about art and performances, which is that they are trying to get something across to their audience; that they all have deep meanings and morals, when in actual fact they don’t. Some artists do things for the most simple reason there is: because they want to. I think this type of art is becoming more accepted as it is becoming more well known.

 

 

WORKS CITED

Tate (2012) Performance and Installation Spaces Online: www.tate.org.uk (accessed: February 25th)