From TIME · · 1m 20s
Anne Imhof redefines performance art for the TikTok age
The German artist captivates audiences with slow-moving, bass-heavy performances that blend high fashion with contemporary dance.
In brief
The German artist captivates audiences with slow-moving, bass-heavy performances that blend high fashion with contemporary dance. Anne Imhof has made performance art culturally relevant again by combining fashion, dance, and immersive spectacle. Originally reported by TIME.
A new era of performance
Anne Imhof creates slow-moving, bass-pounding tableaux that hold attention even in our distracted age. Her work has redefined what performance art can be.
Doom drew massive crowds
Her three-hour epic Doom: House of Hope, loosely based on Romeo and Juliet, attracted 9,000 visitors across 10 dates at New York's Park Avenue Armory in 2025.
Fashion meets ballet
Doom cast Balenciaga models alongside professional ballet dancers. The fusion made it one of 2025's most talked-about artistic projects.
Fashion brands love her aesthetic
Imhof's angsty-cool style has made her a favorite of fashion houses. She co-starred in Valentino's Cruise 2026 campaign this past year.
A permanent swimming pool sculpture
She unveiled a monumental public sculpture of a swimming pool outside the Serralves Museum in Porto, Portugal. It's her first permanent outdoor work.
First solo show in Asia
In September, Imhof opens a survey exhibition at Hong Kong's Tai Kwun center. It includes a new performance with the Hong Kong Ballet.
The bottom line
Anne Imhof has made performance art culturally relevant again by combining fashion, dance, and immersive spectacle.
