In the 1980s Kiefer studied the Kabbalah and Kabbalists such as Robert Fludd. Lead, which became his chief material, first attracted him when he had to repair ageing pipes in the first house he owned; later he discovered its connection with alchemy. Extended journeys to the US and the Middle East also influenced his work.
1987
Exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago organised a comprehensive solo exhibition of Kiefer's work.
12. Juni 1987 – 20. September 1987
Exhibition: documenta 8
1988
Turns a brick factory in Höpfingen into an artwork
Kiefer's studio moved from the attic of the former school in Hornbach to a factory building in nearby Buchen; in 1988 he transformed a former brick factory in Höpfingen into an extensive artwork with numerous installations and sculptures.
1990
Awarded the Wolf Prize
In 1990 Kiefer was awarded the Wolf Prize.
1991
Leaves Germany to travel the world
In 1991, after twenty years of work in the Odenwald, Kiefer left Germany to travel the world — to India, Mexico, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia and the United States.
