Kunst is onbetaalbaar [Art is priceless]
1987
Painting, 60 x 25 cm.
Materials: acrylic, canvas
Collection: Collection M HKA, Antwerp (Inv. no. S0026).
Ben Vautier, operating under the emblematic first name 'Ben', whose white ink and black background typified him in the Fluxus movement, has been creating handwritten works since the 1950s. Ben continues to authenticate himself by making striking statements and offering these statements as art. On account of his genuine interest in what is written down, the viewer is given the impression of looking at pamphlet-like works. In many of his messages, Ben questions the artist's role and the value of art.