Performance Art Collection

Vienna Opera
Dieter Reichelt

A Kathakali performance at Fort Kochi in Kerala, India. An actor gets his make-up before the play

Songye power figure (copper) (detail of 198855)
HSC198854 Songye power figure (copper) (detail of 198855) by African School; Private Collection; (add.info.: probably a frightening kifwebe mask;); Photo © Heini Schneebeli

Songye power figure (copper) (see 198854 for detail)
HSC198855 Songye power figure (copper) (see 198854 for detail) by African School; Private Collection; (add.info.: probably a frightening kifwebe mask;); Photo © Heini Schneebeli

Songye Mask, Zaire (wood) (see also 136680 & 82)
HSC136681 Songye Mask, Zaire (wood) (see also 136680 & 82) by African School; Private Collection; (add.info.: probably a frightening kifwebe mask;); Photo © Heini Schneebeli

A Maori performer at Te Puia in Roturua, Bay of Plenty in New Zealand

Robert Powell, The Fire Eater, from Portraits and Faces of Remarkable and Eccentric
XJF425389 Robert Powell, The Fire Eater, from Portraits and Faces of Remarkable and Eccentric Characters of London, published in 1819 (engraving) by English School

Bed-Of-Nails Champion
New York, New York: May 20, 1976 Vernon Craig, the bed-of-nails champion of the world, practices his art at the dedication of the Guinness World Records exhibition hall

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"Exploring the Boundaries of Expression: Unveiling the World of Performance Art" Step into a world where creativity knows no bounds, as artists push the limits of traditional forms and immerse themselves in the captivating realm of performance art. From Three Ball Charlie's mesmerizing juggling act to a spellbinding Kathakali performance at Fort Kochi in Kerala, India, every moment is an invitation to witness art come alive. Delve into the intricate details of Songye power figures crafted from copper; their enigmatic presence exudes ancient wisdom and spiritual energy. Marvel at the vibrant Songye Mask from Zaire, its wooden contours telling tales untold. These artifacts transport us to distant lands and cultures, inviting us to ponder their significance within performance art. Journey across oceans to New Zealand's Te Puia in Roturua, Bay of Plenty, where Maori performers captivate audiences with their powerful haka dances. Witnessing these ancestral rituals ignites a profound connection with tradition and heritage. The transformative power of makeup takes center stage as performers don cat face paint or embody characters like Hector and Milly Save Uncle Tom. In 1973's Gentle Strangers fire dancer enchants onlookers with her hypnotic movements that seem to defy gravity itself. A rear view portrait captures six Chinese schoolchildren standing in line—a poignant reminder that even everyday moments can become performances when viewed through an artistic lens. Meanwhile, two female actors adorned in cat makeup evoke mystery and intrigue against a timeless black-and-white backdrop. Finally, we arrive at Sydney Opera House Opening Ceremony—an iconic event etched forever in history—where grandeur meets innovation. This architectural masterpiece becomes a canvas for breathtaking displays that celebrate human ingenuity through music, dance, light shows—all merging seamlessly into one unforgettable spectacle. Performance art transcends boundaries; it challenges conventions while embracing diversity and cultural exchange. It invites us all to be partakers—to witness, to feel, and to be moved.