Press Release: Marina Abramović, Glastonbury
PIONEERING PERFORMANCE ARTIST
TO CREATE MOMENT OF PEACE AND UNITY
AT ICONIC FESTIVAL
(Glastonbury Festival, England) 27 June, 2024 ➳ Renowned performance artist Marina Abramović is set to bring a unique experience to this year’s Glastonbury Festival. In an unprecedented move, Abramović will take to the Pyramid Stage and invite the audience to join her in Seven Minutes of Collective Silence.
Scheduled for Friday 28 June at 17:55 BST, the intervention is a response to Glastonbury’s 2024 theme of “Peace,” fostering a moment of introspection and unity amid the vibrant energy of one of the world’s most celebrated music festivals. Known for her groundbreaking and often provocative works that challenge the boundaries of art and audience interaction, Abramović aims to create a shared space for unity and reflection among the tens of thousands of festival-goers.
“Silence is a powerful tool that allows us to connect with ourselves and each other in ways words cannot,” says Abramović. “At a festival like Glastonbury, where sound and energy are in constant flux, these Seven Minutes of Collective Silence offer a unique opportunity for unity and introspection. It’s about being present together, experiencing the power of silence as one.” Abramović will be wearing a dress created by her friend, renowned fashion designer Riccardo Tisci.
The custom dress, specially crafted for the occasion by artisans in Milan, Italy, features a surprise detail that will be revealed during Abramović’s appearance on the Pyramid Stage.
This moment has been made possible through Glastonbury’s ongoing collaboration with CIRCA, a platform dedicated to showcasing innovative and impactful contemporary art in unexpected places. Curated by Josef O’Connor, this will be Abramović’s largest ever participatory work, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career.
Glastonbury Festival organisers are thrilled to support this intervention. “We are honoured to have Marina Abramović bring such a meaningful and profound experience to Glastonbury,” says Emily Eavis, Co-organiser of Glastonbury Festival. “Her work has always pushed boundaries and inspired deep reflection, and we believe this moment of collective silence will be a memorable and impactful addition to the festival.”
Festival-goers are encouraged to arrive at the Pyramid Stage before 17:55 BST to participate in this unique event. Appearing on stage shortly before PJ Harvey’s performance, Abramović’s intervention is expected to be a highlight of this year’s festival, offering a rare and contemplative experience amidst the excitement and celebration.
NOTES TO EDITORS
ABOUT MARINA ABRAMOVIĆ
Marina Abramović is a Serbian performance artist known for her pioneering work in the field of performance art. Her career spans over four decades, during which she has created numerous iconic works that explore the relationship between performer and audience, the limits of the body, and the possibilities of the mind. Abramović’s work has been exhibited internationally, and she has received numerous awards for her contributions to contemporary art.
ABOUT GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL
Glastonbury Festival is one of the largest and most iconic music and performing arts festivals in the world. Held annually in Somerset, England, it features a diverse lineup of music, art, and cultural events. The festival is renowned for its unique atmosphere, commitment to environmental sustainability, and its ability to bring together a global community of artists and fans.
ABOUT RICCARDO TISCI
Riccardo Tisci is an acclaimed fashion designer known for his innovative designs and collaborations with leading artists and cultural icons. Tisci’s work is characterised by its bold vision and meticulous craftsmanship, making him a standout figure in contemporary fashion.
ABOUT UNITED NATIONS CERF
The United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) provides timely and reliable humanitarian assistance to people affected by natural disasters and armed conflicts. CERF enables lifesaving support to reach those in need quickly, empowering humanitarian responders with the resources necessary to save lives and alleviate suffering.
ABOUT CIRCA
CIRCA is a forward-thinking platform dedicated to showcasing innovative and impactful contemporary art. Through collaborations with leading artists and cultural institutions, CIRCA aims to create moments of reflection and dialogue in public spaces, making art accessible and relevant to a global audience.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram ➳ @abramovicinstitute | @glastofest | @circa.art
Facebook ➳ @marinaxabramovic | @glastonburyofficial | @circa.art.fb
X ➳ @artistispresent | @glastonbury | @circa__art
#SEVENMINUTESOFCOLLECTIVESILENCE
PRESS OFFICE
For press enquiries, please contact: press@circa.art