Joseph Beuys (1921-1986)

Panels #1-15, numbered by the artist (from Is it about a bicycle? Aus: Vehicle Art, Documenta 7, 1982) 1982/1984 Acrylic and chalk on wood panels 48 x 48 in (122 x 122 cm)

As one of the foremost German artists of the postwar years, Joseph Beuys' extensive conceptual and performance works reexamined concepts of humanism, social philosophy, and anthroposophy. His theories on the social utility of art influenced a generation of sculptors, installation artists, and conceptual artists. Born in 1921 in Krefeld, Germany, Joseph Beuys realized his desire to sculpt as a teenager. After military service and time as a prisoner of war, Beuys studied sculpture at the Kunstacademie in Dusseldorf where he later served as professor. His experiences in the war contributed to his artistic and personal identity and figures, at least obliquely, in much of his artwork.

Beuy's extensive oeuvre is principally comprised of four domains: traditional works of art (painting, drawing, sculpture, and installations), performances, conceptual art and teaching, and social and political activities. During the 1960's Beuys formulated his central theoretical belief in the power of universal human creativity and confidence in the potential for art to bring revolutionary change.

Beuys gained international attention for his commitment to political reform and his unconventional style of incorporating ritualized movement and sound, as well as such controversial materials as fat, felt, earth, honey, blood, and taxidermied animals. He participated in numerous international exhibitions as well as Documentas III-VII and multiple Venices Biennales. His works are included in collections across Europe and the United States. Beuys continued to produce until his death in Dusseldorf in 1986.