Hans Buttner Paintings

Hans Büttner was a German painter and printmaker, whose work spanned several decades of the 20th century. Born at the turn of the century, his early life was marked by the dramatic changes and upheavals in Germany, from the aftermath of the First World War through the Weimar Republic, into the rise of the Nazi regime, and then the rebuilding of Germany post-Second World War. Despite these turbulent times, Büttner managed to develop a unique artistic voice, which was influenced by the major art movements of his time, including Expressionism, New Objectivity, and later, elements of Abstract Expressionism.

Büttner's early work was heavily influenced by the Expressionist movement, characterized by bold use of color and dynamic forms. He was particularly known for his intense, emotionally charged landscapes and cityscapes, which reflected the uncertainty and chaos of Germany in the interwar period. As the political climate in Germany shifted dramatically with the rise of the Nazis, Büttner, like many artists of his time, faced significant challenges. His work became more subdued, and he turned towards more abstract forms, partly in response to the Nazi regime's condemnation of modern art as 'degenerate.'

After the Second World War, Büttner's style evolved further, as he began to incorporate elements of Abstract Expressionism into his work. This period is marked by a more experimental approach to form and color, and an interest in the materiality of paint itself. Despite the shifts in his style over the years, Büttner's work consistently explored themes of human emotion, the natural world, and the impact of societal changes on the individual.

Büttner's contributions to German art were recognized later in his career, and he became a respected figure in the post-war art scene. Despite the challenges he faced, including periods of obscurity and the difficulty of working under a repressive regime, Büttner remained committed to his artistic vision. He continued to paint until his death in 1990, leaving behind a diverse and rich body of work that reflects the complex history of 20th-century Germany. His legacy is preserved in museums and collections across Germany and beyond, where his paintings and prints continue to be appreciated for their emotional depth and technical mastery.