Joseph Beuys (German pronunciation: [ˈjoːzɛf ˈbɔʏs]; May 12, 1921 – January 23, 1986), was a German performance artist, sculptor, installation artist, graphic artist, art theorist andpedagogue of art.
His extensive work is grounded in concepts of humanism, social philosophy andanthroposophy; 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, but he is now regarded as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.[1][2] ~Wiki
I saw these two piano pieces in person (one in Centre Pompidou, the other in Venice), and they were really very striking. The images cannot communicate the feeling that they emitted. The one above felt so warm and comforting somehow. I remember talking with someone about the swiss cross on its side, a nod toward first aid kits.
Below, the viewer must crawl into the padded room to view the piano. There was no audible resonances within the space because of its acoustic qualities. It created a very claustrophobic and dense sense of place, nearly opposite the other piano.
The guitar in the case also looks like a first aid kit, implying "Break in case of emergency." Maybe music is spiritually healing.
I understand that Beuys did several performances included rooming with a coyte for a period of time. Interesting.
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