BOOK:Thomas Bayrle-Playtime,Phaidon Publications

Thomas Bayrle began his career as a designer and, after an apprenticeship within a textile factory he became fascinated by mechanization and its repetitive patterns and rhythms. Influenced by Pop Art, and notably Sigmar Polke, the Frankfurt School, the economic post-war boom, and most importantly the large American presence in Frankfurt, Bayrle abandoned painting in 1967 to produce serigraphic works reflecting on mass society. Like fellow Frankfurt artist and friend Peter Roehr, Bayrle adopted serial repetition as a means to critically engage with mass consumerism. The work of the pioneering artist, whose explorations of mass culture, consumerism, and politics remain highly relevant today is presented on the richly illustrated monograph “Playtime” by Phaidon Publications and will be shipped from 22/6/18. The book brings together Thomas Bayrle’s paintings, sculptures, drawings, wallpapers, installations, and prints from the past years to showcase his lasting influence and continued relevance. This book highlights the full breadth and complexity of Bayrle’s career to date.-Dimitris Lempesis