BEUYS, JOSEPH

Joseph Beuys (May 12, 1921 Krefeld, Germany – January 23, 1986 Düsseldorf, Germany) is regarded as one of the most important artists of the 20th Century. He was a German Fluxus and performance artist, sculptor, graphic artist, art theorist and professor at the Art Academy Düsseldorf.

His works deal with the issue of humanism, social philosophy and anthroposophy particularly. Well known are his works with fat and felt. This is because he was rescued by Tartars in the Second World War after a plane crash and was well maintained. His wounds were anointed with animal fat and to keep him warm he was wrapped it in felt. Also his father worked in a margarine factory.