Joseph Beuys had a profound influence on the social debate about the definition of art. With his expanded concept of art, he emphasised that art exists not only in traditional forms such as painting and sculpture, but in all areas of human life. His famous quote ‘Everyone is an artist’ illustrates his conviction that everyone has creative abilities and can contribute to shaping society.

A key example of his provocative art is the performance ‘How to explain the paintings to a dead rabbit’ at the Schmela Gallery in Düsseldorf in 1965, in which Beuys explained the artworks on display to a dead rabbit while covering its head with honey and gold. This performance symbolised that art and communication can go beyond rational explanations and address deeper, intuitive levels.

Beuys' work and ideas had a lasting impact on the art world and broadened the discussion about the role and definition of art.

Der Heiligenschein, 2024

Homage to Joseph Beuys

Acrylic on canvas
24 carat fine 999/gold, copper impact metal, rust and patina colours

130 x 195 cm⁣ / 51 x 77 in⁣


No. #202406