Based on close archival research, Christian Weikop uncovers unknown and exciting narratives, as well as artist networks, concerning this provocative 1970 exhibition, held at ECA. The author has previously considered the British press reception of SGA in an article for Tate Papers, but this book publication goes far beyond that article and any other scholarship on the exhibition by taking into account the contributions of all 35 artists based in Düsseldorf, and incorporating testimony of individuals who were involved in this landmark exhibition, or who were later engaged in archive exhibitions or recreation projects. Weikop explores the formation of the exhibition in the context of a late 1960s culture of protests and occupations, and demonstrates that SGA was a pivotal ‘Shock of the New’ moment that would leave its mark on art education.

You can view some images from the title below.

Strategy: Get Arts. 35 Artists Who Broke the Rules
By Chritian Weikop
Published by Edinburgh University Press

Joseph Beuys sitting on the platform for Keith Critchlow and Alan Hacker’s ‘musical environment.’ Sound in Space presented at ECA by the Richard Demarco Gallery (25–29 August, 1970). Photo © George Oliver, Demarco Digital Archive.

Blinky Palermo making his wall painting Blue/Yellow/White/Red (August 1970). Photo © George Oliver, Courtesy of Jennifer Gough-Cooper. © DACS 2021.

Joseph Beuys, The Pack installed for Strategy: Get Arts (August 1970). Photo © George Oliver, Courtesy of Jennifer Gough-Cooper. © DACS 2021.

Richard Demarco and Joseph Beuys by the staircase of the Sculpture Department corridor, ECA (August 1970). Photo © George Oliver, Courtesy of Jennifer Gough-Cooper.

Stefan Wewerka posing on the main staircase of ECA Main Building (SGA 1970). Photo © Monika Baumgartl.

Stefan Wewerka’s bentwood chairs installation on the main staircase of ECA Main Building (1970). Photo © George Oliver, Courtesy of Jennifer Gough-Cooper. © DACS 2021.

Strategy: Get Arts, 35 Artists Who Broke the Rules by Christian Weikop is published by Edinburgh University Press, priced £40