Beuys: Art as a Weapon

The life and work of iconoclast Joseph Beuys, a revolutionary '70s and '80s German artist celebrated for his works, performances and politics.

"The hero of every art student in his era, Beuys scorned the establishment, creating works unfriendly to the gallery environment; such as the 7000 Oaks project, and his performance piece, ‘How to Explain Pictures to a Dead Hare'. Beuys was also a political figure, founding or co-founding numerous activist organisations, and was elected a Green Party candidate. His distinctive image (gaunt cheeks, felt hat and vest), and the stories he told about his war experiences were a part of his artistry – his branding, if you like. The extraordinary wealth of footage and images that director Andres Veiel (Black Box BRD) has gathered together for this documentary resurrects Beuys' art-star persona." (Sydney Film Festival)

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