An American sculptor, performance artist, and video artist, Vito Acconci received his MFA from the University of Iowa in 1964. Initially writing poetry, he began to create visual work (specifically, photographic records of actions) in 1969. During the first half of the 1970's, Acconci staged a number of activities and performances, and during the second half of the 1970's, he created audio/visual installations. In the 1980's, Acconci transitioned to permanent sculptures and installations and became interested in combining natural and mass-produced objects to create sculpture and furniture.