Pavel Büchler's 1970s-80s Collages Reveal Homogeneity in Postmodern Imagery

Pavel Büchler, an artist originally from the Czech Republic and now based in the UK, utilizes collage to investigate the concept of 'similitude' within postmodern culture. His creations from the 1970s and 1980s flatten a variety of images, subverting conventional collage techniques. Drawing on W.H. Auden’s idea that 'poetry makes nothing happen,' Büchler brings attention to neglected aspects. The exhibition showcases framed collages of crowds and altered diaries that elevate ordinary notes to artistic expressions. Key works include Untitled (1987), which layers Asian and Middle Eastern crowds, and Untitled (1987–88), which contrasts a musical group with Samurai warriors. His collages blend art-historical reproductions, combining pieces by Manet and Ingres. The January & February 2015 issue of ArtReview featured this collection.