Balkan Erotic

Stills from Marina Abramovic's 2005 multi-channel video installation Balkan Erotic.

The work explores Balkan pagan traditions and culture through sexuality and the human body. Abramovic researched Serbian folklore and discovered many historic instances of the employment of eroticism and sexuality to address everyday issues. For example, if it rained too much the women of the village would run into the fields and lift their skirts in an attempt to scare the gods and end the rain. Along with amateur actors, Abramovic dressed in traditional folk costumes and reenacted ancient rituals. The videos examine Balkan folklore and culture, the power of sexuality and tradition.