Yoko Ono’s CUT PIECE: A Masterclass in Performance Art and Courage

Yoko Ono | 1965 Performed on March 21, 1965 at Carnegie Recital Hall, New York. Experience Yoko Ono’s captivating performance of Cut Piece at the renowned Carnegie Hall. Watch as the fearless artist, adorned in her finest attire, sits alone on stage with a pair of scissors before her. In this groundbreaking display, the audience is encouraged to participate by approaching Ono and using the scissors to take a small piece of her garment as a keepsake. Witness the range of emotions as some cautiously snip a square from her sleeve or skirt, while others boldly remove sections of her blouse or bra straps. Throughout the entire performance, Ono remains motionless and expressionless, maintaining an enigmatic aura. She meticulously determines when the performance concludes, leaving the audience in awe. Reflecting on this thought-provoking experience, Ono explains that she enters a trance-like state during Cut Piece, feeling surprisingly unafraid. By deviating from the typical act of giving, she sought to explore what the participants would take. The moments between each person stepping forward created a hauntingly beautiful silence, akin to a captivating piece of music.