Publisher's Synopsis
The person and work of Joseph Beuys (1921-1986) were always considered controversial. For some he was a charlatan, a spin merchant, a utopian, for others he was the most important German post-war artist - a creative successful visionary with an international reputation. Joseph Beuys has left an enormous complex body of work which contains drawings, sculptures, installations, and actions. Three decades after his death his ideas and thoughts about the understanding and interpretation of life in the 21st century can be helpful, dynamically creative and a guideline. This is essential especially in the field of religion and theology. What may be surprising or erroneous to some, for Beuys is not to be designated a religious artist. In his curriculum vitae and work again and again religious moments and motifs can be found, which set him apart from a church dominated christianity, and impress by their seriousness and depth. They invite (self-)reflection and are able to stimulate questions of religion and theology in these secular and post-secular times.
