Initiation Gauloise

1972–1985

The project “In Defence of Nature” in Bolognano

From 1972 to 1985 Beuys carried out in Bolognano the project “Operation In Defence of Nature”, the Italian project with the greatest international impact: artistic, political, ecological and humanitarian actions, among them the “Paradise Plantation” of 7,000 plants (1982) and “Olivestone” (1984).

1974

Founds the Free International University

Together with Heinrich Böll, Beuys opened an international-level university where anyone could study — with no age limits and no entrance competition.

1974

Blackboard talks with Buckminster Fuller

In Edinburgh, at Richard Demarco's “Black & White Oil Conference”, Beuys worked with Buckminster Fuller: at the Forrest Hill Schoolhouse he discussed “The Energy Plan of the Western Man” with audiences at a blackboard.

1975

A severe heart attack

In 1975 Beuys suffered a severe heart attack.

1976

Takes part in the Venice Biennale

In 1976 Beuys's work was shown at the Venice Biennale.

late 1970s

Among the founders of the German Green Party

The Free International University became one of the four organisations that founded the German Green Party at the end of the 1970s; Beuys himself was a founding member and lifelong supporter of the party.