Was Mit Kunst - Ein Podcast Von Und Mit Johann König

1
... with Julian Opie about Symbols, Towers, and the Language of Movement 1:27:45

vor 12 Tagen1:27:45

1:27:45

In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König speaks with British artist Julian Opie, whose monumental solo exhibition is currently on view at KÖNIG GALERIE, taking over all spaces at St. Agnes, including the courtyard and sculpture garden, with several works designed especially for the unique architecture of the building, forging a powerful dialogue between art and space. Known for his distinctive graphic language and bold reduction of form, Opie shares how his practice has evolved over three decades—drawing from everyday life, historical art forms, and the visual codes of the modern city. In this candid conversation, he reflects on his early influences, the impact of his upbringing in Oxford, and his decision to follow a non-scientific path before studying art at Goldsmiths in London. At the heart of Opie’s work is a deep engagement with the act of looking—both outward, at the world, and inward, through memory and repetition. As he puts it, “To draw is not just a matter of putting your hand out into the world… it’s also drawing information into your brain and understanding the world.” His exhibition at KÖNIG GALERIE transforms the vast space of St. Agnes into a stylized urban landscape—populated by animated LED schoolchildren, towering steel sculptures, and portraits rendered like diagrams or logos. Together, he and Johann König discuss how drawing acts as a universal language, why collecting is an essential part of being an artist, and how the process of refining and repeating one's ideas over time becomes a form of discovery. They also delve into the symbolism of towers, the emotional weight of materials, and how motion and architecture intersect in his current work. The exhibition—his first with KÖNIG GALERIE—draws inspiration from ancient Egyptian reliefs, contemporary street life, corporate iconography, and presents a walkable environment where past and present, high and low, static and moving forms coexist. “I’m trying to find a language,” he says, “that rings true.” Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE…

1
... with Erin Armstrong about Female Resilience and Painting Emotions 52:49

vor 26 Tagen52:49

52:49

In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König sits down with Canadian painter Erin Armstrong, whose vivid, emotionally charged exhibition TRIAL BY FIRE is currently on view at KÖNIG TELEGRAPHENAMT. Known for her surreal figurative worlds, Armstrong speaks candidly about the disorienting beauty and chaos of simply being alive—a sensation she tries to translate into her paintings. Her work explores the emotional landscape of womanhood, vulnerability, and resilience through recurring symbols like balancing spheres, dense jungle foliage, and symbolic figures that serve as placeholders for mood rather than identity. As Armstrong puts it, “I never really paint literal people … it’s just from imagination based on the way I am feeling.” Together, she and Johann König discuss the evolution of her practice, her resistance to traditional art school pathways, and the moment she returned to painting after a four-year detour into history studies. They also reflect on imposter syndrome in the art world and the paradox of success—how staying humble is key to artistic growth. The episode touches on deeply personal and political themes, including Armstrong’s reflections on the oppressive climate for women in North America today. Her exhibition TRIAL BY FIRE presents a hauntingly symbolic vision of contemporary womanhood—nude figures hiding in the jungle, teetering on spheres, caught between visibility and exposure, strength and fragility. “They’re showing that they’re in states of chaos,” Armstrong says, “or they’re in worlds where it’s feeling like something other is happening.” Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE…

1
... with Arne Quinze about Art as a Living Landscape 50:06

vor 6 weeks50:06

50:06

In this re-air episode of WAS MIT KUNST, we revisit Johann König's conversation with Belgian contemporary artist Arne Quinze, whose work once emerged from graffiti and has since evolved into a powerful, multidisciplinary exploration of the fractured relationship between humanity and nature. Known for transforming urban environments with monumental public installations, Quinze's practice spans painting, sculpture, and immersive environments. Now, as Arne Quinze has just opened his solo exhibition RAW PARADISE at KÖNIG BERGSON, we are re-airing this episode to revisit the ideas that continue to shape his practice. Originally recorded ahead of his participation in the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, the conversation explores themes that remain central to RAW PARADISE—his deep engagement with nature, his evolution from street art to environmental installations, and his use of diverse materials like bronze, ceramics, and Murano glass to express nature's wild energy and fragile equilibrium. In the episode, Quinze shares his journey from rebellious street artist to visionary sculptor and painter. They discuss his deepening dialogue with natural forms, his collaborations with renowned studios like Berengo (Murano glass) and Atelier Vierkant (ceramics), and his call to reimagine our cities as living ecosystems. Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE…

1
... mit Elvira Bach über die Frau als künstlerisches Motiv 30:21

vor 8 weeks30:21

30:21

In dieser Episode von WAS MIT KUNST spricht Johann König mit der Künstlerin Elvira Bach, deren Arbeiten aktuell in der Gruppenausstellung GUTEN MORGEN, DU SCHÖNE bei König Telegraphenamt zu sehen sind. Elvira Bach (* 1951 im Taunus), gehört zu den Vertreterinnen der in den 80er-Jahren gegründeten Künstlergruppe der „Neuen Wilden“. Ihre expressive Malweise mit einem mutigen Farbeinsatz machte Bach, Jahrgang 1951, zum Vorbild für viele Künstlerinnen. Sie hatte bei Hann Trier in Berlin studiert, und hatte seit 1978 eine Vielzahl an Einzelausstellungen, u. a. in Berlin, New York, London, Paris, Basel und Madrid. Bachs Werk stellt die Frau in den Mittelpunkt, dargestellt in Ganzkörper-, Dreiviertel- oder Halbporträts. High Heels, Lippenstift, Puderdosen, Zigaretten, Erdbeeren, langstielige Rotweingläser und andere Objekte werden zu Symbolen der Weiblichkeit erhoben und avancieren in ihren Gemälden zum Markenzeichen der Künstlerin. Sie erschafft einen Prototyp der Weiblichkeit, den sie in vielfältigen Variationen neu interpretiert. Im Podcast unterhalten sich Johann König und Elvira Bach über die Laufbahn der Künstlerin, ihre unverwechselbare künstlerische Sprache und über das dominierende Motiv in Bachs Arbeiten: die Frau. Mehr zur AUSSTELLUNG © Portrait Elvira Bach fotografiert von Marion Schult…

1
... mit Ersan Mondtag über Erfahrungsräume in der Kunst und die Geschichte der Gastarbeit 38:34

vor 14 weeks38:34

38:34

In der neuen Folge von WAS MIT KUNST spricht Johann König mit dem multidisziplinären Künstler Ersan Mondtag – einem der prägendsten Theatermacher seiner Generation, der Bildende Kunst, Performance, Musik und Theater zu einzigartigen Erfahrungsräumen verschmelzen lässt. Mondtag, 1987 in Berlin geboren, hat mit seinen bildgewaltigen Arbeiten an Häusern wie dem Berliner Ensemble, der Deutschen Oper oder dem Maxim Gorki Theater Maßstäbe gesetzt. Im Gespräch erzählt er, wie die bildende Kunst seine Inszenierungen beeinflusst und warum er seine Bühnenbilder selbst entwirft. Dabei schafft er Räume der Erinnerung und Auseinandersetzung – Orte, an denen Betrachter:innen und Objekte in Beziehung treten. Ein besonderes Augenmerk liegt auf seiner Beteiligung am Deutschen Pavillon der 60. Biennale in Venedig, den er 2024 gemeinsam mit der Künstlerin Yael Bartana gestaltete. Ihre immersive Installation „Thresholds“ thematisierte Migration, Identität und Erinnerung – mit Mondtags Beitrag „Denkmal eines Unbekannten“, inspiriert vom Leben seines Großvaters, als zentralem Element. Die Arbeit gibt den oft vergessenen Geschichten von Gastarbeiter:innen in Deutschland eine Stimme – ein stilles Mahnmal gegen die Ausbeutung des Körpers und für ein kollektives Gedenken. Ausgehend von dieser Arbeit sprechen die beiden auch über Mondtags kommende Ausstellung ASBEST zum Gallery Weekend Berlin 2025 in der KÖNIG GALERIE. Außerdem spricht Mondtag über die Rolle der Kunst in einer Zeit, in der die subventionierte Kultur zunehmend unter Druck gerät – und warum es gerade jetzt Räume braucht, in denen Geschichten erzählt werden, die sonst ungehört bleiben. Eine Folge über die Kraft des Theaters, über das Politische im Ästhetischen und darüber, wie Kunst uns helfen kann, Erinnerungen präsent zu halten. Mehr Infos über den KÜNSTLER Mehr zur AUSSTELLUNG…

1
... with Dana James 30:16

vor 16 weeks30:16

30:16

In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König sits down with New York-based artist Dana James to explore the themes of transformation, memory, and duality in her work. Central to James’s practice is her exploration of contradiction – the tension between beauty and chaos, clarity and abstraction. Her works are rich in texture, inviting the viewer to engage with the physicality of the surface. The subtle juxtaposition of pastel tones with deeper, darker hues continues her exploration of themes such as femininity, vulnerability, and power. James shares insights into her artistic journey, from growing up in a family of artists to her transition from figurative to abstract painting. She reflects on how her past as a makeup artist has influenced her understanding of layering and color, as well as the physically demanding nature of her process – she often works with her hands, shaping the surface of her paintings manually. Together, James and König delve into the influences behind THE ENCHANTMENT ROOM, discussing how she conceived the show and its connection to the sacred atmosphere of a chapel. James explains how her artistic evolution is more circular than linear – she enjoys revisiting past ideas while constantly pushing herself to do the opposite of what came before. Listen in to hear why Dana James believes that artistic growth is not just about moving forward but also about looking back and reimagining. Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE Listen to the episode with Anselm Reyle HERE…

1
... with Bosco Sodi 29:17

vor 18 weeks29:17

29:17

In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König sits down with internationally renowned artist Bosco Sodi to explore the themes of materiality, spirituality, and transformation in his work. Central to Sodi’s practice is his embrace of natural forces and the beauty of imperfection. His works, rich in texture and depth, reflect his philosophy of allowing the unknown to shape his artistic process. In MON PÈRE, his latest exhibition at KÖNIG GALERIE, Sodi presents a meditative installation featuring mixed-media canvases and a century-old olive tree, engaging in a profound dialogue with the sacred space of St. Agnes. Together, Sodi and König discuss the inspirations behind MON PÈRE – from his personal connection to his father to the symbolic power of the olive tree and the importance of roots. Sodi also shares insights into his creative approach, from the physicality of his process – searching for pigments, building layers, and sensing the moment to let the painting evolve – to the role of chance in his work and the deep relationship between art and nature. The conversation also touches on his unexpected journey into the art world, the struggle of turning art into a profession, and how he sees creation as a form of therapy. Sodi reflects on the significance of mastering every step of his process and his ongoing exploration of clay at Casa Wabi, the artist residency and foundation he co-founded with architect Tadao Ando. Listen in to hear why Bosco Sodi believes that true beauty lies in embracing chaos and imperfection. Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE…

1
... with Reine Paradis 41:14

vor 20 weeks41:14

41:14

In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König talks with the French artist Reine Paradis, whose solo show ECLIPSE is on view at KÖNIG TELEGRAPHENAMT. Known for her bold use of color and unconventional process, Reine Paradis works across multiple mediums, including self-portrait photography, painting, performance, sculpture, and video. Her art invites viewers into a vividly surreal world where familiar perceptions are replaced by a new visual language. In ECLIPSE, her latest solo show at KÖNIG TELEGRAPHENAMT, Paradis presents new works that blur the boundaries between reality and imagination. Based in Los Angeles since 2012, she meticulously constructs each scene—from initial sketches and location scouting to costume design and staged self-portraits—before refining the final image through careful editing. Expanding her practice, she transforms props from her photographs into neon-translucent uranium glass sculptures, playing with light and shadow to heighten the immersive effect. In this episode, König and Paradis discuss the evolution of her practice, her signature color palette, and her artist residency at KÖNIG MEXICO CITY. Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE…

1
... mit Xiyao Wang 56:09

vor 22 weeks56:09

56:09

In dieser Folge von WAS MIT KUNST spricht Johann König mit der chinesischen Malerin Xiyao Wang, deren Soloshow LIGHTLY FLOATS AND DRIFTS THE BOAT bei KÖNIG MEXICO CITY zu sehen ist. Xiyao Wangs Werke sind von einer abstrakten Formensprache geprägt, die aus der Wechselwirkung zwischen den expressiven Bewegungen ihres Körpers beim Malen und den entstehenden Spuren auf der Leinwand hervorgeht. Die Energie beider Bereiche – des Raums vor dem Bild und der dargestellten Fläche innerhalb des Bildrahmens – wird mit der Lebendigkeit und Kraft eingefangen, die dem Entstehungsprozess jedes Werks innewohnen. Johann und Xiyao sprechen über diesen Prozess sowie über verschiedene Arbeitswerkzeuge wie Kohle und den „Oilstick“. Inspiriert von dem klassischen chinesischen Gedicht 归去来兮辞 (Ah, Homeward Bound I Go!) reflektiert die neueste Werkserie ihrer Soloshow LIGHTLY FLOATS AND DRIFTS THE BOAT ihre fortwährende künstlerische Reise und persönliche Suche nach Identität. Die Ausstellung verbindet kulturelles Gedächtnis, philosophische Reflexion und die Vergänglichkeit der Zeit – Themen, die sowohl in ihrem Leben als auch in ihrer kreativen Praxis eine zentrale Rolle spielen. Mehr Infos über die KÜNSTLERIN Mehr zur AUSSTELLUNG…

1
... mit Etsu Egami 34:28

vor 24 weeks34:28

34:28

In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König sits down with Japanese artist Etsu Egami to explore the themes of miscommunication, Asian artistic heritage, and global influences in her work. Following the opening of her solo exhibition, MELODY, at KÖNIG GALERIE, Egami discusses her unique approach to portraiture, blending influences from Japanese painting and European figurative traditions. Egami reflects on her classical training in oil painting – an imported technique in Asia – and how her background in calligraphy informs her signature translucent brushstrokes. She shares insights into her fascination with miscommunication as a visual concept and how her art transforms language barriers into striking, emotive compositions. The conversation touches on the differences between painting from information versus memory and friendship, as well as the universal potential of visual art to bridge cultural divides. Together, Egami and König delve into the influences behind MELODY, from pop icons like John Lennon and Freddie Mercury to composers like Mozart. Egami also discusses her first full-length group portrait, examining how her work distills the human figure into a grammar of gesture and color. Listen in to hear why Egami believes art is a universal language and how she uses painting to reimagine the way we see and connect with one another. Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE…

1
... mit Paco Pomet 36:01

vor 26 weeks36:01

36:01

In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König sits down with Spanish artist Paco Pomet to delve into the surreal, grotesque, and satirical worlds of his oil paintings. Following the opening of his solo exhibition, BRAND NEW PRISTINE TURMOILS at KÖNIG BERGSON, Pomet unpacks his unique approach to art, from his fascination with black-and-white photography and old film noir to his technique of distorting reality to evoke both humor and unease. Pomet reflects on how his childhood vision struggles shaped his obsession with the "art of looking" and discusses the challenge of painting from memory. He reveals how his works disrupt the supposed truth of images, turning historical photos into sites of surreal critique and commentary. Together, König and Pomet explore themes of duality – joy and sadness, order and chaos – and how art has the power to shake perceptions and confront history. Listen in to hear why Pomet believes art should "put the finger in the eye of the viewer" and how he uses painting to create a dialogue about the complexities of our visual culture. Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE…

1
... mit Henning Strassburger 41:15

vor 28 weeks41:15

41:15

In der neuen Folge von WAS MIT KUNST spricht Johann König mit dem Maler Henning Strassburger über seine Ausstellung KÖPFE in der KÖNIG GALERIE. Die beiden unterhalten sich über Strassburgers Alter Ego „Alphakenny“, die Tradition der deutschen Malerei, inwiefern der Künstler sich in ihr verortet, und über den Aspekt des Scheiterns in seinem Werk. Dabei wird deutlich, dass für Henning Strassburger das Künstlerdasein mehr als nur ein Job ist. Er sagt: „Ich meine mal, das Interessante am Kunstmachen ist ja auch, dass man nicht abends Feierabend hat.“ Mit KÖPFE präsentiert die KÖNIG GALERIE die erste Einzelausstellung von Henning Strassburger im Kirchenschiff von St. Agnes. Die Ausstellung umfasst neue Gemälde und erstmals auch Skulpturen, die Strassburgers dynamische Bildsprache kraftvoll verkörpern. Mit kräftigen Farben und gestischen Kompositionen erkundet der Künstler die vielschichtigen Überschneidungen von Identität, Medien und sozialen Erzählungen. Seine Werke sind ein lebendiger Kommentar zu unserer heutigen fließenden Existenz. Strassburger lebt und arbeitet in Berlin. Er studierte an der Akademie der Künste in Düsseldorf. Seine Arbeiten waren in zahlreichen Gruppenausstellungen zu sehen, u.a. im Kunstraum Potsdam (2022), in der Kunsthal Rotterdam (2020), in den Deichtorhallen Hamburg (2019), in der Aishti Foundation Beirut (2018) und in der Bundeskunsthalle Bonn (2016). Mehr Infos über den KÜNSTLER Mehr zur AUSSTELLUNG…

1
... mit Esra Gülmen 36:38

vor 32 weeks36:38

36:38

In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König speaks with the artist Esra Gülmen, whose works are on view in the showroom of KÖNIG GALERIE. In the podcast, Gülmen talks about her practice and how she became an artist. From her education in architecture, and her career in advertising, to her life as an artist in Berlin. Gülmen has developed a playful, ironic practice by carving out and revealing “embedded notions” of social codes, and with it, torpedoing any vestige of the ideal in contemporary art. Learn more about the artist HERE…

1
... mit Erich Reich 56:02

vor 34 weeks56:02

56:02

In der neuen Folge WAS MIT KUNST spricht Johann König mit dem Gründer Erich Reich über seine Unternehmen Studierenden Kunstmarkt. Der Studierenden Kunstmarkt wurde ins Leben gerufen, um Kunststudierenden eine Plattform zur Ausstellung und zum Verkauf ihrer Kunst zu bieten. Die immer steigende Nachfrage an Kunstwerken von Studierenden hat nun dazu geführt, dass die Kunstwerke nicht mehr nur auf den Rundgängen in den Universitäten, sondern speziell auch Online gesehen und gekauft werden können. Die hier ausgestellten Werke stammen von Kunststudierenden aus den renommiertesten Kunsthochschulen Deutschlands und vereinzelt auch von Universitäten aus Österreich, Tschechien, Polen, Holland, Russland und der Schweiz. Mehr Infos zu Studierenden Kunstmarkt HIER…

1
... mit Allison Zuckerman 38:31

vor 36 weeks38:31

38:31

... mit Allison Zuckerman In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König speaks with the painter Allison Zuckerman, whose two-person exhibition, POWERSHIFT, featuring the works of Evelyne Axell and Allison Zuckerman, is on view at KÖNIG GALERIE until December 21, 2024. Curated by Zuckerman, this exhibition explores how feminist art evolves, and responds to its time while remaining constant in its messaging. Axell and Zuckerman, though separated by decades, both employ art to challenge and redefine the representation of women. Their works resonate with themes of empowerment, society’s fixation on the fleeting nature of beauty, and the performance of womanhood. Together, they create a rich dialogue exploring the struggle for female autonomy and the complexities of female identities and agencies. In the podcast, Allison talks about her practice and her exhibition at KÖNIG GALERIE. This episode is a re-air from a previously recorded podcast with Allison Zuckerman. Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE…

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