Styles & Movements

Total Art

The term "Total Art" was coined by art critic Adrian Henri to describe the rich stew of environmental artwork, happenings, installation, and performance that was at its peak in the late sixties and early seventies. Many artists at this time were impatient with the idea of art being restricted to the easel or even the studio and were bringing their ideas out into the streets, the natural landscape, via the airwaves, or through other innovative means. These artists often used theater as a component in their exhibitions, made art that the public could interact with, created huge installations, or made cheap multiples that could be disseminated to a large audience. The artists included Joseph Beuys (performance, installation), Christo (land art), Walter de Maria (earth art), Les Levine (performance, installation), Michelangelo Pistoletto (installation), Ed Ruscha (cheap multiples), and many others.