Eroticism, Balkan tradition, and performance in a work that challenges the limits of the body and perception.
After presenting 7 Deaths of Maria Callas at the Liceu in 2023, Serbian artist and mother of performance art Marina Abramović now brings Balkan Erotic Epic, one of her most daring and provocative works. This unclassifiable spectacle, positioned between dance and performance art, merges elements of performative tradition with sensuality and eroticism, reflecting Abramović’s ongoing exploration of the body, sexuality, and the limits of human experience. The piece is deeply rooted in the cultural context of the Balkans—a region steeped in history, conflict, and a rich cultural heritage—making it not only an aesthetic challenge but also a profound reflection on identity and the political and social tensions of the territory.
In Balkan Erotic Epic, Abramović fuses eroticism with Balkan folklore and mythology, creating a work of striking visual and emotional power. Beyond being an exploration of eroticism, the piece delves into the emotions, tensions, and contradictions inherent in the region’s culture. The artist uses the body not only as a means of expression but also as a space to challenge social and political norms related to sexuality, violence, and power.