This article presents a reflection on the social role of the material element in the work, thought and action by the German artist Joseph Beuys (1921-1986). From the 1970s, Beuys began to shift more of his work for educational activities and policies. The artist wanted to expand the boundaries of art from the Expanded concept of art and Theory of Sculpture published during the 60's. Gradually, the material element, previously limited to sculptures, drawings and actions, starts to act socially. Thus, through description and analysis of five works of Beuys produced between 1970 and 1980, I seek to show how this material element expands little by little within its own meanings to, at the end of Beuys' artistic life, act as social agent .
contemporary art; social sculpture; Joseph Beuys
