Marina Abramović, the pioneering Serbian conceptual and performance artist, has remained steadfast in her commitment to her career and has chosen not to have children in what she describes as a conscious decision to maintain the intensity and focus required for her groundbreaking work .
In a candid and deeply personal interview with German newspaper Tagesspiegel, Abramović provided insight into her choice to renounce motherhood, a decision she made early in her life.
Addressing a topic that resonates with many women in various fields, Abramović highlighted the perceived impact having children would have had on her artistic journey.
The artist revealed that she had undergone three abortions because she firmly believed that motherhood would have been a potential hindrance to the compelling and demanding nature of her artistic pursuits.
In her own words, Abramović expressed the belief that the limited energy in the body should have been divided between her artistic endeavors and the responsibilities of motherhood, a compromise she was unwilling to make.
Abramović’s comments touched on broader issues within the art world, particularly the challenges women face in reaching prominent positions. She pointed to societal expectations around love, family and children as factors that often influence women to make sacrifices that can hinder their professional advancement.
By choosing not to have children, Abramović claims she has retained a level of freedom that allows her to fully dedicate herself to her art. The absence of family responsibilities has allowed her to channel all her energy, time and focus into her creative endeavors, contributing to her status as a pioneering force in contemporary art.
While Abramović recognizes the talent of many women in the art world, she poses a thought-provoking question about the differences in reaching positions of influence.
Her perspective sheds light on the societal expectations and challenges women face, which ultimately influence their professional journeys.