Joseph Beuys : Actions, Vitrines, Environments

An in-depth look at the fascinating sculptural works of one of the twentieth century's most innovative artists. Joseph Beuys (1921-86), - the German sculptor, teacher, activist and performance artist, became one of the most influential figures in modern and contemporary art. His charismatic presence, extraordinary life, and unconventional artistic style gained him international fame and notoriety during the 1960s, '70s, and '80s. Beuys's innovative influence is particularly felt in the field of sculpture, whose definition he expanded to encompass performance art, activism and site-specific environments. His use of unconventional materials including fat, felt, honey, blood and living trees reflected both the mythologising of his personal history and his growing political commitment. This beautifully illustrated book investigates Beuys's sculpture, arguably the most fundamental aspect of his artistic work, as well as his extraordinary influence. Featured objects include a selection of Beuys's remarkable vitrines, cousins of standard museum presentations, featuring both hand-made and found objects blackboards on which he jused in delivering lectures and performances; room-sized environments; and many other objects that served as physical documentation of Beuys's performances. With a comprehensive chronology of Beuys's activities both as an artist and activist, this book is essential for those interested in the life, work, and legacy of one of twentieth century art's most intriguing figures.