Experimental Artists

Marina Abramovic: The Artist Is Present (2011)

These fine artists are true experimentalists who connect with their audience through conceptual ideas. Their work is both groundbreaking and meaningful, and their life stories are well worth knowing.

Marina Abramovic: The Artist Is Present (2011) is directed by Matthew Akers. Marina Abramovic is a performance artist who uses her body to push the boundaries of pain, discomfort and social limitiations. The Artist Is Present refers to Abramovic’s 736-hour performance at MoMA in 2010, which is thoroughly covered in the film.

In the Mirror of Maya Deren (2002)

In the Mirror of Maya Deren (2002) is directed by Martina Kudlacek. Maya Deren made her mark as a noted pioneer of avant-garde filmmaking in the 1940s and ’50s. Included in this film are several interviews with her friends and collegues. Kudlacek does a wonderful job painting a detailed portrait of Deren’s life and work.

About the Author

Norbert made Murfreesboro, Tenn., his home in 1997. He conceived the Living Room Cinema column in 2006, and submits them regularly to the Murfreesboro Pulse. Aside from his love of films, Norbert is also an avid photographer. He is the very proud father of two, he beats on an old guitar, and plays a dicey game of Chess at best. Like Living Room Cinema at facebook.com/livingroomcinema.