Glastonbury, known for its boisterous crowds and iconic rock acts, is set for an unusual experience: seven minutes of silence led by renowned performance artist Marina Abramović. At 17:55 GMT, just before PJ Harvey takes the stage, Abramović will invite the estimated 200,000 festival attendees to a moment of collective reflection. This ‘public intervention,’ as Abramović calls it, challenges the typical energy of the festival, aiming to create a shared experience of quiet contemplation.
Abramović, known for pushing the boundaries of conceptual art with provocative performances, believes silence holds immense power. “Silence is a powerful tool that allows us to connect with ourselves and each other in ways words cannot,” she explains. This ambitious undertaking represents Abramović’s largest-ever participatory work, surpassing even her previous stadium performance with an audience of 6,000. “I don’t know any visual artists who have done something like this in front of 175,000 to 200,000 people,” she says.
The artist hopes the silence will encourage introspection, aligning with Glastonbury’s 2024 theme: Peace. “At a festival like Glastonbury, where sound and energy are in constant flux, these Seven Minutes of Collective Silence offer a unique opportunity for unity and introspection. It’s about being present together, experiencing the power of silence as one.” Abramović acknowledges the current global challenges, urging individuals to look within themselves for positive change. “We are really facing a dark moment in human history. So what can be done? I always think protest brings more protest; hate brings more hate. I think it’s important to turn to your own self. It’s easy to criticise everything else but what can I do in my own self, how can I change?”
The success of this bold initiative remains uncertain. While festival boss Emily Eavis expresses confidence in Abramović’s ability to create a meaningful experience, the artist herself acknowledges the risk. “It’s a big risk, that’s why I’m terrified,” she admits. “I could completely fail, or people could just sit. I don’t know, but I want to take the risk. Failing is also important, you learn from failing as well as succeeding.” The audience’s response will be a testament to the power of silence in a world often dominated by noise. Will they embrace the quietude, or will the usual festival fervor prevail? Only time will tell.
