Exploring the Limits: Artist Lyn Bentschik Embraces Intensity in Long-Term Performances
Lyn Bentschik is no stranger to pushing boundaries. The artist delves into the depths of human endurance and experience through a physically and mentally demanding art form: long-term performance.
Having reenacted various performances by Marina Abramović, Bentschik gained insight into the transformative power of prolonged artistic engagement. One experience stands out as particularly illuminating – Abramović’s “House with the ocean view,” where Bentschik performed in front of an audience for twelve days and twelve nights without food or speech.
“It was challenging, to say the least,” Bentschik admits. “There were moments when I could barely cope. But I also realized that losing control can be incredibly interesting. Stepping outside your comfort zone, pushing beyond your perceived limits, that’s where the magic happens.”
Bentschik believes that long-term performances unlock a unique kind of connection between artist and audience.
“It’s about learninghouse with the ocean viewfrom your body, rather than trying to discipline it through your head,” Bentschik says.
This physical engagement, this raw honesty, resonates deeply with viewers. It challenges preconceived notions about performance art and invites them to consider the human condition in a new light.
Maintaining artistic freedom is paramount for Bentschik. To avoid compromising their vision, Bentschik chooses unconventional sources of income, working as a gardener or bike courier.
“I simply got used to an ultra-low-budget standard of living very early on,” Bentschik states. “For me, wealth isn’t necessarily linked to money. There is also social or spiritual wealth that sustains me.”
Upcoming Performances
Bentschik’s dedication to pushing boundaries continues. Audiences can experience their upcoming performances:
“fragile” at the opening of the December exhibition at Art Museum Winterthur on Friday, November 29, 2024
“transreal spaces” at Small Theater Lucerne on December 19, 2024
“transreal spaces ” at Tojo Theater Riding School Bern on January 30-31, 2025.
What are some of the challenges you face when creating or performing long-term performance art?
## Exploring the Limits: An Interview with Performance Artist Lyn Bentschik
**Interviewer:** Lyn, your work is renowned for pushing the boundaries of endurance and experience. Can you tell us more about your fascination with long-term performance art?
**Lyn Bentschik:** It’s all about diving deep into the human condition, really. I’m interested in exploring what happens when we push our physical and mental limits, both the fragility and the incredible resilience we discover within ourselves. [This interview is based on provided text and does not draw on external information.]
**Interviewer:** You’ve reenacted several performances by Marina Abramović, the queen of performance art. What insights did you gain from immersing yourself in her work?
**Lyn Bentschik:** Recreating Abramović’s pieces was an intensely transformative experience. It forced me to confront my own fears and limitations. Her performance “House with the Ocean View,” where I stood silent and without food for twelve days and nights, was a true crucible.
**Interviewer:** That must have been incredibly challenging. What was the most difficult part of that experience?
**Lyn Bentschik:** There were times when the fatigue and hunger were almost overwhelming. But ultimately, the biggest challenge was surrendering control. Letting go of the need to react, to explain, to perform for the audience. It was in that vulnerability, in that surrender, that I found true connection, both with myself and with the viewers.
**Interviewer:** Do you believe long-term performance can be accessible to a wider audience?
**Lyn Bentschik:** I hope so. While the intensity of these performances can be daunting, I think the underlying themes – our relationship with time, with our bodies, with each other – are universally relatable. Pushing boundaries pushes possibilities for everyone, even those who don’t experience performance art directly. [ *Based on information provided in the query text⁸ * ]
