Marina Abramović delivered a one-off performance at the Royal Academy of Arts

Marina Abramović spreads the message of love in a one-off performance titled 'An Invitation to Love Unconditionally' at the Royal Academy of Arts.

Marina Abramović gave a one-off performance at the Annenberg Courtyard within the Royal Academy of Arts. Photo by MTotoe.

We were fortunate to attend Marina Abramović's live performance titled An Invitation to Love Unconditionally. The spontaneous live event, was revealed just days before its commencement, yet free tickets vanished in mere moments. Set in the Annenberg Courtyard of the esteemed Royal Academy of Arts, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as Abramović initiated the performance, encouraging the packed courtyard to embrace deep relaxation through focused breathing.

Marina Abramović's calls audiences to reflect on the power of unconditional love. Annenberg Courtyard, Royal Academy of Arts. Photo by MTotoe.

At the heart of this experience was a beautifully simple yet deeply impactful gesture: participants were invited to connect by placing their hands on each other's shoulders for a span of seven minutes. Through this physical contact, a moment of serene stillness and collective unity was fostered.

Following these heartfelt seven minutes of silent connection, Abramović prompted the audience to echo her words of ‘Unconditional Love’.  In this shared moment of solidarity, amidst the repeated chant of "together we will change the world," a member of the audience passionately interjected with a fervent cry to “Free Palestine".

Marina Abramović conveyed a message of Unconditional Love as part of a live performance titled An Invitation to Love Unconditionally, held in the Annenberg Courtyard of the Royal Academy of Arts, London. Photo by MTotoe.

Marina Abramović is renowned for her immersive performances involving public participation, notably her celebrated piece The Artist is Present, showcased at MoMA in 2010, in which she performed every day for three months. She has dedicated her career to showcasing the transformative power of live performance art.

Marina Abramović, The Current, 2017. An exhibition dedicated to the works of Abramović is currently on display at the Royal Academy of Arts until 1 January 2024.

This performance was a gentle reminder of the potential of 'Unconditional Love' to make a meaningful impact. It felt touching and poignant, especially in these challenging times.

For those intrigued by Abramović's artistry, her retrospective is currently on display at the Royal Academy of Arts until 1 January 2024. This exhibition offers an opportunity to delve into her legacy, explore the layers of her artistic evolution, and immerse oneself in the depth of her creative journey.

Click here for a visual preview of the live performance.

Date: 11 December 2023. Location: Annenberg Courtyard, Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD.