Lot Essay
Michael Beutler was educated at the Stdelschule in Frankfurt (1997-2003) and the Glasgow School of Fine Art (2000-2001). His work explores and responds to architectural spaces and his approach ranges from the addition of minimal elements to total takeovers and complete makeovers. The outcome is often humorous, even borderline absurd, such as the bright yellow Pecafil staircase adorning a derelict outhouse in the 2006 Berlin Biennial. Sometimes it is more functional, like the 400m2 ceiling made out of wood and straw, inspired by windsurfing techniques, which gave the Kunstverein Mnchen a whole new floor for the 2003 exhibition Totally Motivated: A Socio-Cultural Manoeuvre. Recent solo exhibitions are Michael Beutler, Protikus, Frankfurt am Main (2007) and Michael Beutler, Bonniers Konsthall, Stockholm (2008). Recent group shows include Personal Protocols and Other Preferences, CCS Bard Hessel Museum, New York (2008); Fusion Confusion, Museum Folkwang, Essen (2008); the 1st Moscow Biennial, Moscow (2005); and the 6th Gwangju Biennial, Gwanju (2006).