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Diverse program to mark the 40th anniversary of Joseph Beuys' death
To mark the 40th anniversary of Joseph Beuys' the Hessian State Museum Darmstadt visitors to a full day of events on Sunday, January 25, 2026, centered around the globally unique "Block Beuys" complex of works. Between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., the program includes guided tours, discussions, digital offerings, and performances.
The "Beuys Block" is considered the largest surviving collection of the artist's original works. From 1970 onwards, Beuys installed a parcours of around 300 objects in seven rooms of the museum. Materials such as felt, copper, fat, and chocolate, as well as his concept of "Social Sculpture," exemplify his radical expansion of the concept of art. To this day, the works provoke controversial reactions ranging from rejection to enthusiasm and encourage the understanding of art as an active contribution to shaping society.
Guided tours, discussions and digital access
On the day of the event, visitors can explore the "Beuys Block" through themed guided tours, ask questions, and gain new perspectives on the artwork. Additionally, a digital trial run will be offered for the first time, allowing for a virtual exploration of the spaces. This will open up new avenues to one of the most important artworks of the 20th century.
Dance meets visual arts
A particular highlight of the program is the interactive dance piece "Encyclopedia of Experiences" by the Hessian State Ballet . Through the fusion of dance and visual art, the artistic cosmos of Joseph Beuys is transformed into a contemporary dialogue and made newly accessible. The choreography is by Alessio Damiani .
Program overview
11:30 a.m.
“Fat, Felt and Chocolate – Who was Joseph Beuys?”
Guided tour for children and families with interactive and creative elements (Eva Nebhuth)
1 p.m.
“Everything must go! The renovation of the Block Beuys”
Dr. Lutz Fichtner in conversation with Olivia Levental
2:00 p.m.
“Encyclopedia of Experiences”
Interactive dance piece by the Hessian State Ballet
Choreography: Alessio Damiani
3:00 p.m.
“The Beuys Block in the Present Day: What It Still Relevates to Us”
Dr. Lutz Fichtner and Dr. Katrin Thomschke
4:00 p.m.
“Encyclopedia of Experiences”
Performance by the Hessian State Ballet
Choreography: Alessio Damiani
5:00 p.m.
“Art that changes – the Beuys Block from a conservation perspective”
Dr. Katrin Thomschke in conversation with Sigrid Pfandlbauer
Throughout the day, digital exploration opportunities of the “Block Beuys” as well as hands-on activities such as coloring pages and a search game for children, teenagers and families will be offered.
admission
All activities on the special event day are free of charge. Only the regular museum admission fee of €8 (€5 for concessions) applies.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PM/HLMD)
Featured image: Joseph Beuys at the HLMD, March 1971, Photo: Werner Kumpf, HLMD © Hessian State Museum Darmstadt
