Ulay Art Appraisal

In Between by Marina Abramović and Ulay (Uwe Laysiepen)

This is a large-format photographic print on weighted paper, depicting a scene from the 'In Between' series by the renowned performance artist Marina Abramović and her collaborator Ulay. The image features a symmetrical architectural composition with two silhouetted figures performing a backbend, creating a sense of mirroring within a minimalist, sepia-toned spatial environment. The color palette focuses on deep ochres, shadows, and reflective floor surfaces that catch the light from vertical openings in the background. The print is displayed on a textured, white interleaving or backing paper, possibly rice paper, which is shown unframed on a wooden floor with a roll of brown protective paper visible to the left. The condition shows some rippling and moderate undulation across the paper surface, likely due to storage in a rolled state or environmental moisture. There are no visible signatures or edition numbers on the front image area in this view, suggesting they may be on the reverse or in the margin. The work represents the high-concept performance art aesthetic of the late 20th century, specifically the collaborative period between 1976 and 1988, known for its exploration of physical limits and relational dynamics. The craftsmanship is evident in the sharp contrast of the silhouettes against the warm, atmospheric lighting of the interior.