Anselm Kiefer is considered one of the most important contemporary artists. To celebrate his 80th birthday in March, two museums in Amsterdam will stage a major exhibition. And there’s a first.
Amsterdam.
German artist Anselm Kiefer will be honored with a major exhibition in Amsterdam next spring and will also present a monumental new artwork. The installation, titled “Tell me where the flowers are,” is more than 24 meters long and will be the centerpiece of the exhibition, the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art in Amsterdam announced. The 79-year-old painter and sculptor, born in Donaueschingen, is considered one of the greatest contemporary artists. He will turn 80 in March 2025.
It is the first joint exhibition between the two museums in the Dutch capital. The exhibition is scheduled to run from 7 March to 9 June 2025 and will then be exhibited at the Royal Academy of Arts in London.
The nearby Stedelijk Museum highlights Kiefer’s close ties to the Netherlands. Already in 1986 the Art Museum had mounted a highly successful solo exhibition of his works. Two monumental installations will be exhibited in spring. This includes the new installation Kiefer is currently completing, according to the museum.
The name of the new work refers to the famous anti-war song by American singer-songwriter Pete Seeger from 1955. The song became famous thanks to its performance by Marlene Dietrich in 1962. (dpa)
How does Kiefer’s exploration of history and identity resonate with contemporary social issues?
Interview: Celebrating Anselm Kiefer’s 80th Birthday with Art Expert Dr. Emily Fischer
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Fischer. It’s great to have you here to discuss the upcoming exhibition dedicated to Anselm Kiefer’s 80th birthday in Amsterdam. His work has been a significant influence in contemporary art. What is it about Kiefer that makes him such an important figure?
Dr. Fischer: Thank you for having me! Anselm Kiefer stands out because he grapples with heavy themes such as history, memory, and identity in his work. His ability to blend these profound concepts with unique materials—like straw, ash, and lead—creates multi-layered pieces that invite endless interpretation. His art evokes a sense of the collective trauma of history, especially in relation to Germany’s past.
Editor: Absolutely, and to celebrate this milestone, two museums in Amsterdam are collaborating on this major exhibition. Can you tell us more about what visitors might expect?
Dr. Fischer: This exhibition is remarkable, not only because it celebrates his 80th birthday but also because it features a monumental new artwork titled “Tell me where the…” This kind of installation is significant as it speaks to Kiefer’s evolution as an artist and his ongoing dialog with history and memory. It promises to be a thought-provoking experience that reflects his extensive career while also showcasing his current explorations.
Editor: That’s fascinating! It sounds like the new work will be quite a highlight. How does Kiefer’s approach to art differ from other contemporary artists?
Dr. Fischer: Kiefer’s approach is distinctive due to his heavy use of materials and texture, alongside his philosophical and literary references. While many contemporary artists focus on the aesthetic or conceptual nuances, Kiefer dives deeply into allegory and symbolism, often incorporating themes from mythology and literature. This gives his work a certain weight and narrative depth that is sometimes absent in more visually-driven pieces.
Editor: He certainly does weave in complex narratives. Do you believe that this exhibition will attract a younger audience who might not yet be familiar with his legacy?
Dr. Fischer: I genuinely hope so! Art institutions are increasingly making efforts to bridge the gap between generations. Given the significance of Kiefer’s themes—like the exploration of identity and the confrontation with history—it’s vital for younger audiences to engage with his work. Many of Kiefer’s concepts resonate with contemporary issues, and I believe this exhibition will not only celebrate his past but also ignite discussions relevant to today’s social and political climate.
Editor: That’s a great point. Any advice for individuals who are new to Kiefer’s art, or those who may feel intimidated by it?
Dr. Fischer: My advice would be to approach his artwork with an open mind. One of the beauties of Kiefer’s works is that they can be appreciated on many levels—intellectually, emotionally, and viscerally. Take your time with each piece. Look at the materials used and think about the stories they might tell. It can help to read a bit about the historical context or the materials he’s used to further enhance your understanding.
Editor: Excellent suggestion! I’m really looking forward to seeing how this exhibition unfolds. As we anticipate this celebration of Anselm Kiefer, what do you hope visitors will take away from their experience?
Dr. Fischer: I hope they come away feeling inspired and contemplative. Kiefer’s work is filled with both beauty and discomfort, and it challenges viewers to confront their understanding of history and collective memory. Art should provoke thought, and I believe this exhibition will push audiences to reflect on their own narratives in the context of Kiefer’s explorations.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Fischer, for sharing your insights. It’s clear that Anselm Kiefer continues to be a relevant and transformative artist. We can’t wait for the exhibition to begin in Amsterdam!
Dr. Fischer: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to see the impact of this significant event, and I encourage everyone to immerse themselves in the world of Kiefer’s art. It will be a celebration not just of his life’s work, but of the ongoing conversation it inspires.
