Joseph Beuys: The Reader
"... a welcome attempt to give a broad yet nuanced picture of [Beuys'] work and life…good deal of attention paid to Beuys' objects, writings, and actions... which downplays the biographical while striking a balance with the need to keep his self-promotion firmly in mind. It is this sense of equitability that will make this book required Beuys reading for a long time to come and may even help save him from eventual obscurity." Artforum/Bookforum"... presents an informative discourse of Beuysian work and 21st century art by addressing issues such as how the current practice of established codes of meaning and iconography fit Beuys' model. In doing so, this reader successfully meets its main aim, which was to reopen an 'international discussion on Joseph Beuys and his work.'" contemporary (U.K.)"Such a reinvigorated debate seems much needed.…The book is well researched and expertly edited, and its compilation clearly springs from the editors' commitment to pointing out Beuys' potential. May it help to keep the legacy of this enigmatic artist alive -- an artist who continues to provoke fascination and bewilderment." Journal of Surrealism and the Americas