The Broad museum in Los Angeles will present Yoko Ono's seminal 1964 performance art work 'Cut Piece' from July 2026, marking the first time the piece has been staged in a major U.S. museum setting. The work invites audience members to voluntarily cut away pieces of the performer's clothing, exploring themes of vulnerability, trust, and the relationship between artist and viewer.
Historical Context and Significance
Originally performed by Ono at the Yamaichi Concert Hall in Kyoto, Japan, 'Cut Piece' is considered a landmark in the development of performance art and participatory art. Ono sat motionless on stage as audience members were invited to approach and cut off portions of her clothing with scissors. The piece has been interpreted as a commentary on objectification, gender roles, and the act of giving. The Broad's presentation will feature a rotating series of performers, including volunteers from the local community, who will sit still as participants cut away fabric. The museum has implemented guidelines to ensure the safety and dignity of performers, including a maximum number of cuts per session and the presence of trained staff.
Exhibition Details and Programming
The exhibition will run from July 14, 2026, through January 2027, occupying the museum's first-floor gallery. Admission to 'Cut Piece' will be included with general museum entry, though timed tickets will be required due to anticipated demand. The Broad is also planning a series of related programs, including a symposium on Ono's legacy and workshops on participatory art. The museum's director, Joanne Heyler, said the piece "remains as powerful and relevant today as it was more than six decades ago." The presentation coincides with the 60th anniversary of the original performance and is part of a broader reassessment of Ono's contributions to conceptual and performance art.
Broader Impact and Visitor Experience
Visitors can expect an intimate setting, with each performance lasting approximately 30 minutes. The museum has prepared a dedicated space with seating for up to 50 people per session. The Broad anticipates that the piece will draw significant crowds, as it did when performed at the Museum of Modern Art in 2015, where over 1,000 people participated. This presentation underscores Ono's enduring influence on contemporary art and the ongoing relevance of participatory works in the digital age.
