Anselm Kiefer's "Becoming the Sea": A Deep Dive into Art and Existence

Rediscovering Anselm Kiefer

There's a certain alchemy in the air when you encounter the works of Anselm Kiefer. Walking alongside the Mississippi River, Kiefer distills inspiration from the natural world, commenting: "Look at this tree! This is a fantastic tree, you know?" This playful enthusiasm contrasts beautifully with the weighty themes woven throughout his art. With a major retrospective titled Becoming the Sea recently showcased at the Saint Louis Art Museum, Kiefer invites us on a journey that flows between the banks of memory and philosophy.

A Tidal Wave of Inspiration

At the exhibition, Kiefer's canvases — soaring three stories into the air — command attention and provoke thought. These monumental works are interlaced with themes of history, symbolism, and the transient nature of existence. The show's title, inspired by Beat Generation poet Gregory Corso, encapsulates Kiefer's perspective: "Spirit is life … like a river unafraid of becoming the sea." The waters, both the Mississippi and Europe's Rhine, serve as conduits for life's cyclical journey.

"A river dissolves itself in the sea. As I am not afraid of my death, you know?" - Anselm Kiefer

Reflections of Mortality and Memory

Kiefer's exploration of mortality runs deep, shaped by his formative years in post-war Germany. Growing up in the devastation of World War II, he witnessed a country struggling to address its dark past. "After the war, there was not so much knowledge about what happened. The Germans, they put it underneath the carpet,” Kiefer reflects. This context allows us to grasp just how significant Kiefer's work is in challenging that silence.

His installations often incorporate materials that symbolize decay and rebirth — lead, fire, and even ashes. His engagement with such elements offers a rich tapestry of meaning, transforming his canvases into a dialogue about loss, history, and renewal.

The Artist's Role in Society

I asked Kiefer how he perceives the role of an artist in today's world. His answer was immediate and insightful: "If the artist is in the world, like I am in the world, as I look what happens, then automatically you have a role." This is a call to arms for all of us in the creative space — a reminder that our art has the power to reflect and challenge societal narratives.

The Heart of the Artist

Even with such accolades and recognition, Kiefer maintains a stark humility towards his craft. "So at 80, what are you most proud of in terms of the work you've done?" I asked. His response was refreshingly candid: "You ask strange questions! I am not proud. I am disappointed!" Through laughter, he admits to a relentless pursuit of improvement, embodying a spirit of perpetual growth over static pride.

This perspective creates a powerful connection between the artist and his audience. In Kiefer's world, every completed piece is merely a stepping stone towards the next exploration — a narrative that can resonate deeply with anyone engaged in creative endeavor.

The Exhibition Experience

• Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum exhibition through January 25.
• Discover more about Anselm Kiefer at Gagosian.

If you're in St. Louis, this retrospective isn't just an exhibition — it's an invitation to reflect on the connections between art, history, and our own lives. I left the Saint Louis Art Museum feeling not only inspired but deeply connected to the ongoing conversation about creativity and culture.

Join me in this exploration and immerse yourself in the works of a master who beautifully encapsulates life's essence in each stroke of his brush.