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Green Violin
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© DACS 2006

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Green Violin 1974
This is an action-object - a replica of a violin played by the Fluxus artist Henning Christiansen during a concert called ‘…Or should we change it’. The concert was staged by Beuys and Christiansen at the Städtisches Museum, Mönchengladbach on 27 March 1969. Many of Beuys’ early ‘actions’ were of a concert nature, and he participated with Fluxus events during the 1960s. These events were originally organised by people interested in experimenting with sound, such as the avant-garde composer John Cage. Beuys explores sound and silence throughout his work. This is seen in objects like ‘Noiseless Blackboard Eraser’ (1974), in his use of recorded sound and also of pianos, which are frequently muffled by his trademark rolls of felt.

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Fluxus

A collective of international artists formed in 1960 by the artist George Maciunas. Their name means ‘flowing’ in Latin, and they aimed to break down barriers between art and life by staging avant-garde musical performances and anti-art events which closely involved the public. A socially-motivated group, they promoted an inclusive and collective spirit and were opposed to the functionless art object and the ego-driven artist. Among the various group members were Joseph Beuys, Nam June Paik, John Cage, Daniel Spoerri and Yoko Ono.

Fluxus

Details

  • Acc. No. GMA 4586
  • Medium Violin, painted green, stamped
  • Size 21.00 x 60.00 x 9.00 cm
  • Credit Purchased with assistance from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the Art Fund, 2002

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