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Joseph Beuys ( 1921, Krefeld, Germany – 1986, Düsseldorf, Germany) was a highly influential German artist renowned for his radical contributions to conceptual art, performance, sculpture, and political activism. His groundbreaking practice challenged traditional artistic boundaries and explored social, ecological, and political themes through diverse mediums. Beuys developed the innovative concept of "social sculpture," which proposed art as a transformative social force. He believed that creativity was inherent in everyone and could reshape society. His iconic works often utilized unconventional materials such as felt, fat, honey, copper, and natural substances, each symbolically charged with meaning. Notable works include How to Explain Pictures to a Dead Hare (1965), a provocative performance piece; 7000 Oaks (1982), an ecological installation promoting urban renewal through tree planting; and The Pack (1969), a sculptural installation reflecting themes of survival and collective action. Throughout his career, Beuys participated in numerous international exhibitions and art events, including influential editions of documenta in Kassel and the Venice Biennale. His pedagogical contributions were equally significant, particularly at the Düsseldorf Academy of Art, where he advocated for democratic and accessible art education. Joseph Beuys’s legacy endures through his expansive and innovative artistic vision, continuing to inspire contemporary artists, curators, and activists committed to art's potential to shape society.