Controversial Performance Artist to Be Subject of Arts Society Talk


Helen Oakden to give lecture on Marina Abramovic


Picture: Rest Energy by Ulay / Abramović courtesy of the lecturer

The next lecture to be hosted by the Arts Society South West London is on performance artist Marina Abramovic´ and will be given by Helen Oakden.

The lecture will take place at 8pm on Monday 8 May and will be only Zoom this month because Dryburgh Hall is closed for the Coronation Bank Holiday. It will be recorded so that it can be viewed on a different day.

This year the Royal Academy is hosting the first ever UK exhibition by the artist who is likely to become a hotly debated topic. Abramovic´ is a pioneer of performance art and the talk will look at her 50-year career from its dramatic beginnings to how the artist, now in her 70’s, has developed her work to reflect her changing perceptions of the world.

The lecture will consider whether performance art can outlive the performance itself; are the photos, videos and re-performances of younger artists just as valid? Abramovic´ has a superbly powerful presence and creates a very intense relationship between performer and viewer.

Helen Oakden is the Head of the History of Art Department at St Mary’s School, Ascot. She studied at Manchester University and received her Masters’ Degree in architectural history from the Courtauld Institute of Art. Based in London, she has previously worked for the Royal Academy and National Gallery, as well as leading specialised art history courses across Italy.

Visit the society’s website for details of how to register for the Zoom Lecture.

If you have never attended an Arts Society lecture before you are urged to join and find out about your local Arts Society.

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April 21, 2023