The performance’s unique structure inverted the traditional power dynamic. By immobilizing her body (standing, expressionless) and declaring “I take full responsibility,” Abramović effectively surrendered legal and moral recourse. Crucially, the audience was not asked to consent to a contract with each other—only with the artist’s passivity.
The premise was deceptively simple: Abramović stood still while inviting the public to do whatever they wanted to her using 72 objects provided on a table. The Setup: 72 Objects of Pleasure and Pain Abramović placed a sign on the table that read: rhythm 0 full performance
On June 16, 1974, Abramovic began her performance by standing in a large room with her eyes closed. The audience was given 72 objects, ranging from innocuous items like flowers and feathers to more provocative objects like knives, scissors, and guns. The instructions were simple: the audience could use any object to interact with Abramovic in any way they desired, and she would remain passive, not responding or reacting. The premise was deceptively simple: Abramović stood still
