Günter BrusRun-through of an Action 1966

These sketches represent Brus’s detailed plans for a 56 minute performance, listing props, sound effects and specific body positions and movements. Restrained by leather thongs fastened to his ankles, the performer moves intermittently about a room. He reacts to noises including loud bangs, ticking, and a high-pitched sustained sound. At one point he writhes and screams hysterically. He stabs into a wrapped parcel, releasing silver liquid. Originally planned for the Galerie Nächst St Stephen in Vienna, the performance was cancelled by the gallery’s director on the grounds of being ‘too monolithic’.