Born 1921 in Krefeld, Germany. Gestorben 1986 in Düsseldorf, Germany.
Joseph Beuys extensive work is grounded in concepts of humanism, social philosophy and anthroposophy. It culminates in his extended definition of art and the idea of social sculpture as a gesamtkunstwerk, for which he claimed a creative, participatory role in shaping society and politics. His career was characterized by passionate, even acrimonious public debate. He is now regarded as one of the most influential artists of the second half of the 20th century.
Beuys’ works are represented in international collections such as Tate Modern, London, UK; Centre Pompidou, Paris, France; Museum of Modern Art, New York, USA; Städelsches Kunstinstitut, Frankfurt, Germany; Pinakothek der Moderne, Munich, Germany; National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa.
