"Honey Is Flowing in All Directions"

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Summary: A hallmark of twentieth century art
Review: 'Honey is flowing in all Directions' is an important historical document. It covers one of the most inventive and evocative works Joseph Beuys made for the Documenta exhibition 6 in Kassel, Germany in 1977. The Documenta is the world's foremost art manifestation, which happens every five years. This book can be perceived as a case study about the way Joseph Beuys thought and worked. The photographs in the book are made by Gerhard Steidl, the 'house photographer' of several Documenta's. Klaus Staeck, one of the foremost publishers and distributors of art books and special editions in Germany, published this book. It's a beautiful and inspiring publication that should be on every modern art lover's book shelf. Beuys' 'Honigpumpe am Arbeitsplatz', an installation in the central staircase at the Museum Fridericianum during Documenta 6 was a milestone. A large electrical pump squeezed fluid honey through a circuit of transparent tubes going up and down the staircase and entering adjacent spaces. The Honey Pump represented an Industry both of Vision and Discourse: Beuys' installation was physically and spiritually connected to a space behind the staircase where daily discussions took place. They were organized by the Free International College for Creativity and Interdisciplinary Research, an organization founded by Beuys. Its evocative power and intelligent social interface makes Honigpumpe am Arbeitsplatz a hallmark in the history of twentieth century art.