Renowned German artist Anselm Kiefer is set to unveil his latest installation, titled “Sag mir wo die Blumen sind,” at two museums in Amsterdam. The sprawling exhibit, which comprises 25 paintings, 13 drawings, and three films, explores Kiefer’s antiwar sentiment through subtle and overt expressions.
The show takes its title from the 1955 protest anthem “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?”, a folk song by Pete Seeger popularized by Marlene Dietrich in the early 1960s. The Fine Arts & Exhibits Special Section explores how Kiefer’s work has tackled various aspects of war, including fascism and cultural memory.
Born in Donaueschingen, Germany at the end of World War II, Kiefer has long grappled with the legacy of violence and conflict. His first works addressed the Second World War, while later pieces have taken many forms. A 1969 performance piece, “Occupations,” sparked controversy in Germany by portraying Nazi symbols and provoking discussion about war.
The current exhibition marks a collaborative effort between the Stedelijk Museum and Van Gogh Museum, featuring Kiefer’s landscapes alongside van Gogh paintings. This juxtaposition highlights the influence of van Gogh on Kiefer, who has credited him with inspiring his work since age 13.
Kiefer’s artworks are characterized by layers of paint, oil, acrylics mixed with raw materials like soil and straw, forming deep furrows on the canvas. These landscapes often appear as ruins shot through with blood and shrapnel, reflecting Kiefer’s concerns about the absurdity and persistence of war.
As Kiefer turns 80, he remains committed to his art, stating that painting is a physical expression that comes from his body rather than his head. His intention is not to warn viewers but to share a warning, drawing attention to the ongoing threat posed by right-wing authoritarian leadership both in Germany and the United States.
Through his artwork, Kiefer continues to grapple with the complexities of war and history, inviting viewers to reflect on the absurdity and persistence of conflict. The Amsterdam exhibit serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of Kiefer’s work, cementing his position as a leading voice in contemporary art.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/07/arts/design/anselm-kiefer-van-gogh.html