7000 Oaks

7000 Oaks is a large-scale environmental and social artwork initiated by German artist Joseph Beuys in 1982. The project, formally titled 7000 Eichen – Stadtverwaldung statt Stadtverwaltung (7000 Oaks – City Forestation Instead of City Administration), was conceived as part of the Documenta 7 exhibition in Kassel, Germany. Beuys's vision was not only to plant 7,000 oak trees in Kassel but also to pair each tree with a basalt stone, standing approximately four feet high next to the tree. This pairing of tree and stone was intended to symbolize a unity between the natural and the human-made, and to encourage a more holistic and ecological way of thinking about the environment and urban living.

Concept and Execution

The concept of 7000 Oaks was rooted in Joseph Beuys's broader artistic and philosophical ideas, which included social sculpture, a concept that art could shape society and the environment. Beuys saw the act of planting trees as an act of social sculpture, transforming the urban landscape and involving the community in the process. The project was a call to action, emphasizing the importance of environmental renewal and sustainability.

The execution of 7000 Oaks began in March 1982 at Documenta 7, with the first tree planted by Beuys himself. The project took five years to complete, concluding in 1987, the year after Beuys's death. It was a collaborative effort, involving the local community, volunteers, and various organizations. The funding for the project was raised through the sale of the basalt stones, which were considered artworks in their own right.

Impact and Legacy

7000 Oaks has had a significant impact both as an environmental artwork and as a model for participatory urban greening projects. The project transformed parts of Kassel, increasing green spaces and contributing to the city's ecological balance. It has inspired similar initiatives worldwide, highlighting the role of art in environmental and social activism.

The legacy of 7000 Oaks continues to be celebrated and studied in the fields of art, environmental science, and urban planning. It stands as a testament to Beuys's vision of the transformative power of art and his commitment to environmental issues. The project is also seen as a pioneering work of land art and eco-art, influencing subsequent generations of artists.

See Also

• Joseph Beuys
• Documenta
• Social sculpture
• Land art
• Eco-art