'Marina Abramovic: Transforming Energy' at Modern Art Museum, Shanghai, China

11 October 2024

Until 28 February 2025, Modern Art Museum (MAM) Shanghai presents 'Transforming Energy' by internationally renowned artist Marina Abramović. Inspired by one of Abramović's most iconic performances —her historic walk across the Great Wall in China alongside German artist Ulay in 1988, a journey that established them as the first international artists to traverse the Wall— Transforming Energy holds great significance in the Asian and Chinese art scenes. Curated by Shai Baitel, the Artistic Director of MAM Shanghai, in close collaboration with the artist, the exhibition presents over 1,000 images of Abramović’s walk of the Great Wall, along with a series of captivating new artworks that have been specially created for this significant survey.

The focus of the exhibition centres on artworks and objects that actively engage the audience, inviting their participation. At the heart of the exhibition are works infused with crystals, which serve as a source of transformative energy for both the artist and the visitors. Presented across three floors of MAM, this expansive show provides a significant platform for audiences to immerse themselves in Abramović's prolific career and witness the unveiling of her latest creations.

The exhibition features a diverse range of works spanning decades, including new pieces, crystal-based objects sourced internationally from places such as Brazil, as well as Marina's renowned sculptural objects known as Transitory Objects, which she has meticulously crafted over the years. This comprehensive exhibition offers a unique and vital opportunity for audiences to experience the evolution of Marina Abramović's artistic journey.

Find out more via MAM Shanghai.

Image courtesy MAM Shanghai. Photography by Yu Jieyu.