International avant-garde group of artists founded in Germany by U.S. artist George Maciunas (1931–78) in 1962.
Its members, including Joseph Beuys , John Cage , and Yves Klein , explored media ranging from performance art to poetry to experimental music. Opposed to tradition and professionalism in the arts, the Fluxus group shifted the emphasis from what an artist makes to the artist's personality, actions, and opinions. Throughout the 1960s and '70s they staged "action" events, engaged in politics and public speaking, and produced sculptural works featuring unconventional materials. Though it was an influential movement in Europe, the group's work frequently conflicted with authority and aroused much controversy.