Ronald Feldman Fine Arts

April 15, 2008

To the Landesmuseum, Darmstadt;

I would like to add my comments to those of other concerned colleagues and associates in regard, to the proposed re-installation of the Block Beuys in Darmstadt.

This work had a profound effect on me when I first encountered it in the 1970`s as a young gallarist It became a touchstone over the years, representing the importance of the interrelationship of socially relevant subject matter paired with powerful, haunting aesthetics. It is one of the great treasures of contemporary art.

I discussed this work many times with Joseph Beuys. He believed Block Beuys was possibly the most important work of his life. It was always clear that he recognized that maintaining this huge work would take a very special dedication^ Over the years there were bumps in the road, but the work has remained in its historic setting in the museum. This was greatly appreciated by Beuys and by all of us who are recommending that only the most necessary restorations be made to the work, which includes the space within which the sculpture resides.

While Beuys was flexible regarding his installations, it was he who always took the liberty of adjusting an installation in a new site, or he would personally advise those who sought to do so. On occasion, he would leave these responsibilities to close associates with whom he worked and who he trusted to preserve the work's integrity.

There is no question that every detail of this important installation - materials, space, color, shape, positioning, smell and sound - were carefully considered by Beuys and that he would want this work to be kept as is.

It is certainly a big request to ask a museum that has evolving responsibilities and interests to preserve a complicated installation work exactly as it has always been. Yet, I join the many who ask that this piece, which speaks to the lowest, base instincts and the highest aspirations of human kind, be cared for in the appropriate manner, Beuys felt he had reached such an understanding with the museum. The location and installation of Block Beuys should be preserved as close to the existing installation as possible.

I wish you every success in your very important deliberation. Sincerely,

Ronald Feldman

31 Mercer Street, New York, New York 10013 212226-3232 fox 212 941-1536 www.feldmangallery.com

Fax 04/15/2008 18:21