"Marina Abramović: Transforming Energy" to Make History at Venice's Galleria dell'Accademia
In a milestone exhibition that marks the 80th birthday of performance pioneer Marina Abramović, the world-renowned artist will make history by becoming the first woman to receive a major show at Venice's esteemed Galleria dell'Accademia. The highly anticipated "Marina Abramović: Transforming Energy" is set to take place during the 61st Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious art events globally.
This groundbreaking exhibition promises to be an unforgettable dialogue between Abramović's trailblazing performance practice and the timeless masterpieces that have defined Venice's cultural landscape. Iconic works such as "Imponderabilia" (1977), "Rhythm 0" (1974), and "Carrying the Skeleton" (2008) will be showcased alongside early performances, while Abramović's poignant piece "Pietà" (1983) engages in a profound conversation with Titian's unfinished masterpiece of the same name. This unprecedented pairing reframes Renaissance themes through a contemporary lens, highlighting the body's role as both a site of suffering and spiritual elevation.
Curated by Shai Baitel, this exhibition will be an immersive experience that unfolds across both the museum's permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibition spaces. In a historic first for the institution, Abramović's work will become deeply embedded within Venice's artistic patrimony, marking a significant milestone in the city's cultural identity.
At its core, "Transforming Energy" is a powerful exploration of endurance, presence, transformation – resonating profoundly within Venice's centuries-old visual language. As Abramović embarks on this monumental journey, she solidifies her status as an icon of contemporary art and a shamanic healer for a troubled collectivity.
Opening on May 6 and running until October 19, 2026, "Marina Abramović: Transforming Energy" promises to be an unforgettable experience that will captivate audiences worldwide.
In a milestone exhibition that marks the 80th birthday of performance pioneer Marina Abramović, the world-renowned artist will make history by becoming the first woman to receive a major show at Venice's esteemed Galleria dell'Accademia. The highly anticipated "Marina Abramović: Transforming Energy" is set to take place during the 61st Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious art events globally.
This groundbreaking exhibition promises to be an unforgettable dialogue between Abramović's trailblazing performance practice and the timeless masterpieces that have defined Venice's cultural landscape. Iconic works such as "Imponderabilia" (1977), "Rhythm 0" (1974), and "Carrying the Skeleton" (2008) will be showcased alongside early performances, while Abramović's poignant piece "Pietà" (1983) engages in a profound conversation with Titian's unfinished masterpiece of the same name. This unprecedented pairing reframes Renaissance themes through a contemporary lens, highlighting the body's role as both a site of suffering and spiritual elevation.
Curated by Shai Baitel, this exhibition will be an immersive experience that unfolds across both the museum's permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibition spaces. In a historic first for the institution, Abramović's work will become deeply embedded within Venice's artistic patrimony, marking a significant milestone in the city's cultural identity.
At its core, "Transforming Energy" is a powerful exploration of endurance, presence, transformation – resonating profoundly within Venice's centuries-old visual language. As Abramović embarks on this monumental journey, she solidifies her status as an icon of contemporary art and a shamanic healer for a troubled collectivity.
Opening on May 6 and running until October 19, 2026, "Marina Abramović: Transforming Energy" promises to be an unforgettable experience that will captivate audiences worldwide.