Walk Through Walls Book Summary

In "Walk Through Walls," renowned performance artist Marina Abramović invites readers into her extraordinary world, where art blurs the lines between physical endurance and emotional exposure. Through gripping anecdotes, she unveils the deeply personal struggles and triumphs that shaped her groundbreaking career. As she explores the interplay of life, love, and art, readers are drawn into her mystique and tenacity. Each page challenges conventions, encouraging us to rethink our perceptions of creativity and vulnerability. Will you dare to walk through the walls she has bravely dismantled?

By Marina Abramovic

Published: 2016

"The only way to walk through walls is to first understand what they are made of."

Walk Through WallsBook binding

Start Listening to Book Summary

0:000:00

Book Review of Walk Through Walls

“I had experienced absolute freedom—I had felt that my body was without boundaries, limitless; that pain didn’t matter, that nothing mattered at all—and it intoxicated me.” In 2010, more than 750,000 people stood in line at Marina Abramović’s MoMA retrospective for the chance to sit across from her and communicate with her nonverbally in an unprecedented durational performance that lasted more than 700 hours. This celebration of nearly fifty years of groundbreaking performance art demonstrated once again that Marina Abramović is truly a force of nature. The child of Communist war-hero parents under Tito’s regime in postwar Yugoslavia, she was raised with a relentless work ethic. Even as she was beginning to build an international artistic career, Marina lived at home under her mother’s abusive control, strictly obeying a 10 p.m. curfew. But nothing could quell her insatiable curiosity, her desire to connect with people, or her distinctly Balkan sense of humor—all of which informs her art and her life. The beating heart of Walk Through Walls is an operatic love story—a twelve-year collaboration with fellow performance artist Ulay, much of which was spent penniless in a van traveling across Europe—a relationship that began to unravel and came to a dramatic end atop the Great Wall of China. Marina’s story, by turns moving, epic, and dryly funny, informs an incomparable artistic career that involves pushing her body past the limits of fear, pain, exhaustion, and danger in an uncompromising quest for emotional and spiritual transformation. A remarkable work of performance in its own right, Walk Through Walls is a vivid and powerful rendering of the unparalleled life of an extraordinary artist.

Book Overview of Walk Through Walls

About the Book Author

M

Marina Abramovic

Marina Abramovic is a renowned performance artist, writer, and filmmaker, celebrated for her pioneering work in the field of performance art. Born on November 30, 1946, in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, Abramovic has challenged the boundaries of art through her immersive and often provocative performances. Notable works include 'The Artist is Present,' where she engaged in a silent exchange with museum visitors, and 'Rhythms,' a series that explores the relationship between the artist and the audience over time. Her writing reflects her innovative spirit, combining elements of autobiography, art theory, and personal reflection. Abramovic’s distinctive style emphasizes the physical and emotional connection between artist and viewer, often pushing the limits of endurance and vulnerability.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Marina Abramovic
Published
October 2016
Publisher
Crown Archetype
ISBN
1101905042
Language
English
Pages
402
Genres
BiographyArtist BiographiesArts and Culture

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Leonardo da VinciBook binding

Leonardo da Vinci Book Summary

In "Leonardo da Vinci," author Walter Isaacson unveils the enigmatic genius behind the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, exploring the intricate tapestry of art, science, and creativity that defined the Renaissance. Through a captivating blend of biography and analysis, the book reveals Da Vinci's relentless curiosity and insatiable desire to understand the world around him. Readers will discover the depth of his inventions, sketches, and innovative ideas that were far ahead of his time. Isaacson brings to life Da Vinci's remarkable relationships with his contemporaries and the mysteries that shrouded his personal life. This captivating portrait invites you to unlock the secrets of one of history's greatest minds and challenges you to contemplate the intersection of art and science in your own life.

Leonardo da Vinci
Walter Isaacson
The Autobiography of Benjamin FranklinBook binding

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin Book Summary

In 'The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin,' the iconic Founding Father takes readers on a captivating journey through his life, revealing his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a key figure in American history. Franklin shares insightful anecdotes of his innovative spirit, dedication to self-improvement, and adventurous pursuits in science, politics, and philosophy. His wit and wisdom shine through as he candidly reflects on his successes and failures, providing a wealth of lessons for modern readers. Readers will discover not only the story of a remarkable man but also the principles that shaped a nation. This autobiography invites us to ponder our own paths and the impact of our choices.

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin
The Uses of HaitiBook binding

The Uses of Haiti Book Summary

No summary available

The Uses of Haiti
Paul Farmer
Shaping TextBook binding

Shaping Text Book Summary

In 'Shaping Text', Jan Middendorp explores the intricate relationship between typography and communication. He unveils the historical evolution of typefaces and their impact on our understanding of text. Through insightful analysis and stunning visual examples, Middendorp reveals how design choices shape the way we perceive words. This book challenges readers to consider not just what we read, but how it's presented. Join Middendorp on a journey that transforms the mundane act of reading into a rich sensory experience.

Shaping Text
Jan Middendorp
Autobiography of a YogiBook binding

Autobiography of a Yogi Book Summary

No summary available

Autobiography of a Yogi
Yogananda (Paramahansa)
Nelson MandelaBook binding

Nelson Mandela Book Summary

Dive into the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela as chronicled by Barry Denenberg. This captivating biography unveils the journey of a boy from a small South African village to a global symbol of peace and resilience. Discover how Mandela's relentless fight against apartheid, his years of imprisonment, and his incredible leadership transformed a nation. With heart-wrenching challenges and triumphant victories, this story inspires hope and underscores the power of forgiveness. Join Denenberg in exploring the legacy of a man who changed the world, and be prepared to rethink justice and humanity.

Nelson Mandela
Barry Denenberg
Becoming Steve JobsBook binding

Becoming Steve Jobs Book Summary

'Becoming Steve Jobs' offers an intimate portrait of the tech titan, revealing the transformation of a young, brash innovator into a wise and respected leader. Through candid storytelling and personal anecdotes, the authors unravel the complexities of Jobs’ personality and his relentless pursuit of excellence. Readers will discover the pivotal moments that shaped his vision for Apple and the lessons learned from both failures and successes. This biography is not just about achievements; it's a deep dive into the humanity behind the icon. What drove Steve Jobs to change the world, and what legacy did he leave that continues to inspire?

Becoming Steve Jobs
Brent Schlender, Rick Tetzeli
The Autobiography of Malcolm XBook binding

The Autobiography of Malcolm X Book Summary

No summary available

The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Malcolm X, Alex Haley

Showing 8 of 27 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Similar Book Recommendations →

James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.

Self-ImprovementProductivity
Emily Ratajkowski's Book Recommendations

Emily Ratajkowski's Book Recommendations

Emily Ratajkowski is a renowned model, actress, and author, who gained prominence in the entertainment industry through her work in fashion and film. She made a significant literary contribution with her debut book, "My Body," published in 2021, which explores themes of feminism, sexuality, and empowerment. The book received critical acclaim for its insightful and candid examination of her experiences in the public eye. Ratajkowski's writing has been praised for its depth and honesty, shedding light on the complexities of body politics and personal agency. Beyond her literary endeavors, she continues to use her platform to advocate for women's rights and social justice.

Women Who LeadMemoirs and BiographiesActivist
Austen Allred's Book Recommendations

Austen Allred's Book Recommendations

Austen Allred is an influential entrepreneur and author, best known for his contributions to the education technology sector. He co-founded Lambda School, a groundbreaking online coding bootcamp that offers deferred tuition and has revolutionized access to tech education. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Allred is the author of "The Grassfed Startup," which provides insights into building sustainable businesses. His innovative approach to education has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the tech industry. Allred continues to inspire with his commitment to making high-quality education accessible to all.

Business and LeadershipEducationInspiring Reads
David Kadavy's Book Recommendations

David Kadavy's Book Recommendations

David Kadavy is an author, podcast host, and creativity expert, best known for his books The Heart to Start and Design for Hackers, where he explores the intersection of creativity, productivity, and design. Kadavy's work focuses on helping creators overcome procrastination, build meaningful habits, and find motivation to pursue their creative projects. He is also the host of the Love Your Work podcast, where he interviews high-performing individuals across various fields about their creative processes and productivity techniques. Kadavy’s insights stem from his own experiences as a designer and entrepreneur, offering practical advice on how to break through mental blocks and create with intention. His work emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, creativity, and a minimalist approach to both design and life. Kadavy’s books and podcast have garnered a global audience, positioning him as a thought leader in the realms of personal development and creative success.

Creativity and InnovationProductivitySuccess Stories and Life LessonsSelf-Improvement
Maria Sharapova's Book Recommendations

Maria Sharapova's Book Recommendations

Maria Sharapova, a former world-renowned tennis champion, is celebrated not only for her impressive athletic career but also for her contributions to literature. Winning five Grand Slam titles, she captivated audiences worldwide with her skill and determination on the court. Sharapova channeled her experiences into her memoir, "Unstoppable: My Life So Far," offering an intimate look at her journey from a young prodigy to a global icon. The book received praise for its candid and inspiring narrative, showcasing her resilience and insight. Sharapova's literary work has further solidified her legacy as a multifaceted and influential figure beyond sports.

Memoirs and BiographiesSportsInspiring Reads
John Henderson's Book Recommendations

John Henderson's Book Recommendations

John Henderson is a venture capitalist and partner at AirTree Ventures, where he focuses on investing in early-stage technology companies. Henderson’s background includes experience in law and business, which he leverages to support founders in navigating the challenges of scaling startups. He is particularly interested in sectors such as enterprise software, fintech, and artificial intelligence. Henderson is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the venture capital industry, often working to ensure that underrepresented founders have access to the resources they need to succeed. His work at AirTree has made him a prominent figure in the Australian startup ecosystem.

Business and LeadershipArtificial IntelligenceFounders Playbook
Mindy Kaling's Book Recommendations

Mindy Kaling's Book Recommendations

Mindy Kaling is an American actress, comedian, writer, and producer, best known for her work on The Office, where she played Kelly Kapoor and served as a writer and producer. Kaling has since created and starred in her own shows, including The Mindy Project and Never Have I Ever, earning critical acclaim for her unique voice and humor. She is also the author of several best-selling memoirs, where she shares her insights on Hollywood, identity, and personal growth. Kaling is a trailblazer for women of color in entertainment, using her platform to tell diverse and authentic stories. Her contributions to television and film have made her a significant figure in comedy and media.

Memoirs and BiographiesMedia and Pop CultureWomen Who Lead
Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations

Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations

Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.

Creativity and InnovationInspiring ReadsSelf-Improvement

The only way to walk through walls is to first understand what they are made of.

Walk Through Walls

By Marina Abramovic

Frequently Asked Questions