The Artworks

Public space in Kassel differs from that of other cities by virtue of the presence of outstanding outdoor objects from past documenta exhibitions. The exhibition series has made programmatic use of its urban environment through the step-by-step occupation of new settings. Every documenta since 1977 has featured site-specific works of art conceived as interventions into or commentaries on their urban context. In search of opportunities for greater social impact, art reacts to an increasing extent to its socially defined environment as a means of gaining new credibility beyond the boundaries of the exhibition context.

Although all outdoor artworks were originally planned as temporary exhibits, nineteen prominent installations have been permanently preserved in Kassel over the years: bequests or purchases of objects from documenta 6 (1977), documenta 7 (1982), documenta 9 (1992), documenta 10 (1997), documenta 13 (2012) and documenta 14 (2017). Their retention in the city is the result of a targeted acquisition policy on the one hand, but on the other hand also depends on the engagement of the people of Kassel and the efforts of artists and sponsors. The City of Kassel has assumed ownership of and responsibility for eleven of the nineteen outdoor documenta objects, including 7000 Oaks. These outdoor artworks differ in terms of dimensions and material composition as well as underlying artistic intentions. In any event, however, they represent important stages in the history of documenta and serve as examples of contemporary artistic approaches to urban and rural space at specific points in time.

Given their public impact, these installations are a constant focus of public interest. Their creation and acquisition are always subject to critical commentary by local citizens. Their often controversial responses also reflect the changing arguments advanced in the discussion on art in public space.

More information: www.documenta-historie.de