Joseph Beuys

So kann die Parteiendiktatur uberwunden werden [In this way the Dictatorship of the Parties can be Overcome]

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About this artwork

Beuys once stated; “I have nothing to do with politics – I know only art”, a sentiment which seems odd considering his political involvement. However, he viewed politics as part of an overall strategy for social change through the power of the individual. The early 1970s were a busy time for the artist. One of his campaigns was against party voting, arguing that political parties exploited the hard-working majority to the benefit of the minority who controlled the economy. With this in mind, the Braunkreuz cross at the centre of these felt sheets takes on the appearance of a cross on a voting paper , suggesting that the only way to overthrow the system is through voting.

Updated before 2020

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  • artist:
    Joseph Beuys (1921 - 1986) German
  • title:
    So kann die Parteiendiktatur uberwunden werden [In this way the Dictatorship of the Parties can be Overcome]
  • date created:
    1971
  • materials:
    Felt, wood and glass
  • measurements:
    115.00 x 85.00 x 7.80 cm
  • object type:
  • credit line:
    ARTIST ROOMS National Galleries of Scotland and Tate. Acquired jointly through The d'Offay Donation with assistance from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and Art Fund, 2008
  • accession number:
    AR00623
  • gallery:
This artwork is part of Artist Rooms
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Joseph Beuys

Joseph Beuys