The irony and sharp wit in the works of H.C. Westermann (1922–1981) are prominent in this volume - the first full-length study of the artist in over two decades. Accompanying a global exhibition of Westermann's sculptures, the book delves into the artist's interpretations of iconic 20th century American themes: the traumas of war, the American dream, and big-screen culture.

Stunning color images grace essays by Robert Storr, Lynne Warren, Dennis Adrian, and Michael Rooks, exploring Westermann's work in a 20th century context, his time in Chicago, his full repertoire, and his greatest feat - the house and studio built entirely by his own hands, from 1969 to 1981.

First edition. Hardcover. Published in conjunction with an exhibition that ran June 30 through September 23, 2001 at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago and then traveled to Washington, Los Angeles, and Houston for additional dates. Foreword by Robert Fitzpatrick, Essays by Robert Storr, Dennis Adrian, Lynne Warren, and Michael Rooks. Includes 294 illustrations of which 220 are in full color, checklist, list of previous exhibitions, and a bibliography.