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Eiko & Koma's 'Naked' at Baryshnikov Arts Center presents living installation with retrospective context

exhibition · 2026-04-22

From March 29 to April 9, 2011, Eiko & Koma showcased their living installation titled 'Naked' at the Baryshnikov Arts Center in New York City. This performance involved the duo lying almost completely still within a nest-like structure made of organic materials. Observers could either peer through openings in the canvas walls or step inside, where the artists’ painted bare bodies generated a sense of tension through subtle movements. Initially created for the Walker Art Center in November 2010, 'Naked' was part of the Retrospective Project (2009-2012), reflecting on their 40-year artistic journey. That summer, a significant exhibition was set to launch at the Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art. The performance was free, allowing flexible visitor access and transforming the space into a natural environment.

Key facts

  • Performance ran March 29 – April 9, 2011
  • Located at Baryshnikov Arts Center, 450 West 37th Street, New York City
  • Part of three-year Retrospective Project (2009-2012)
  • Originally created for Walker Art Center in Minneapolis in November 2010
  • Free admission without mandatory reservations
  • Accompanied by video documentation of 40 years of performances
  • Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art exhibition planned for summer 2011
  • 288-page monograph published by Walker Art Center

Entities

Artists

  • Eiko & Koma
  • Anna Halprin
  • Marina Abramovic

Institutions

  • Baryshnikov Arts Center
  • Walker Art Center
  • Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Museum of Modern Art

Locations

  • New York City
  • United States
  • Minneapolis
  • Chicago

Sources