Includes bibliographical references and index.

This book is the final, most comprehensive book ever made by Greek-born Jannis Kounellis, one of the key artists in the Arte Povera movement. Following his breakthrough in the late 1960s in Rome, when he questioned the traditionally sterile environment of the gallery by exhibiting live animals within its walls, Kounellis went on to include diverse materials in his work, including fire, earth, gold, wood, and charcoal, quickly establishing himself as one of the most innovative sculptors of our time. Writings by the artist and a collection of tributes from people who have known and worked with him over the years, such as Pierre Audi, David Hammons, Gloria Moure, Giulio Paolini, Vassili Vassilikos, and many others, are included.