"Performative gestures" refers to actions or movements that are meant to communicate a specific message or intention. These gestures are performed purposely to express something rather than simply being a physical act. Full definition
In a projection on the opposite wall the artist is engaged in a series of performative gestures which test the limits of what constitutes socially acceptable public behavior and seek out the point at which moral sense and social justice intervene. (momaps1.org)
Using an alla prima technique, Yossifor works within the durational limitations of the liveliness of the oil medium, as well as a set of self - imposed restrictions that relate to the action of painting and her sense of the works as performative gestures, indexed to the artist's presence. (milesmcenery.com)
The works are built with performative gestures and unusual materials. (atlantacontemporary.org)