Büttner is best known for drawing out deeper layers of meaning from
daily scenes that, at first glance, may seem banal. He creates surreal
assemblages that question our systems of value and contradict our
understanding of what elements or images may be brought together. His
work confronts social norms with both irony and satire; while retaining
a firm understanding of the history of painting, Büttner is constantly
testing convention. His large-scale neo-Expressionist and neo-Dadaist
works address social issues with a biting and wry humour. In doing so,
Büttner uses all genres of painting, including still life,
self-portraiture and history painting.
This lavishly-produced book presents newly commissioned texts as well as
key essays relating to Büttner's practice, and--taken with its sister
volume dealing with his collage practice My Looting Eye--are the first
substantial books on Büttner in English for many years.