Sinister … Badewanne (Bathtub) . 1961-87

A transformative artwork that transcends traditional boundaries.

Emerging as an artist in post-war Germany, Joseph Beuys occupies a unique position among the conceptual and participatory art movements of that era. His work, particularly Sinister … Badewanne (Bathtub), challenges conventional perceptions of sculpture by proposing that the material itself can act as an active agent rather than merely serving as an aesthetic surface. This innovative approach invites viewers to engage with immaterial forces such as heat, energy, and imagination.

In a society marked by the scars of war, Beuys sought to redefine the role of art as a catalyst for societal renewal. He believed that art possesses the power to heal collective wounds, unleash creative potential, and instigate genuine political change. Through his work, he dissolves the boundaries between art, science, social theory, and politics, creating a multifaceted dialogue that resonates deeply with contemporary issues.

Beuys’ Sinister … Badewanne serves as a profound commentary on the human condition, reflecting the complexities of existence and the potential for transformation within a repressive post-war context.

Design Highlights

• Integration of conceptual and participatory art movements

• Exploration of material as an active agent in art

• Engagement with immaterial forces like heat and energy

• Reflection on societal renewal and healing through art

• Dissolution of boundaries between art, science, and politics

Key Facts