
Häufig erwähnt
Episoden
155- ... with Erin Armstrong about Female Resilience and Painting Emotions30.06., 10:4530.06.2025, 10:4500:52:49
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 © Portrait by Kayla Rocca
- ... with Arne Quinze about Art as a Living Landscape16.06., 10:4516.06.2025, 10:4500:50:06
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 © Portrait by Dave Bruel
- ... mit Elvira Bach über die Frau als künstlerisches Motiv02.06., 10:4502.06.2025, 10:4500:30:21
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
- ... mit Ersan Mondtag über Erfahrungsräume in der Kunst und die Geschichte der Gastarbeit21.04., 09:0021.04.2025, 09:0000:38:34
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 © Portrait by Wilke Weermann
- ... with Dana James07.04., 10:4507.04.2025, 10:4500:30:16
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 © Portrait by James Collins
- ... with Bosco Sodi24.03., 10:4524.03.2025, 10:4500:29:17
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 © Portrait by Matteo Serri
- ... with Reine Paradis10.03., 10:4510.03.2025, 10:4500:41:14
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 © Portrait courtesy of the artist
- ... mit Xiyao Wang24.02., 10:4524.02.2025, 10:4500:56:09
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 © Portrait by KÖNIG GALERIE
- ... mit Etsu Egami10.02., 10:4510.02.2025, 10:4500:34:28
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 Portrait of Etsu Egami © Courtesy of the artist
- ... mit Paco Pomet27.01., 10:4527.01.2025, 10:4500:36:01
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 Portrait by Almudena López Segura © courtesy of the artist
- ... mit Henning Strassburger13.01., 10:4513.01.2025, 10:4500:41:15
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 © Portrait by Jakob Wiechmann
- ... mit Esra Gülmen17.12., 11:0117.12.2024, 11:0100:36:38
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
- ... mit Erich Reich02.12., 10:4502.12.2024, 10:4500:56:02
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
- ... mit Allison Zuckerman18.11., 10:1518.11.2024, 10:1500:38:31
... 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
- ... with Clédia Fourniau21.10., 11:0021.10.2024, 11:0000:26:26
... with Clédia Fourniau In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König speaks with the painter Clédia Fourniau, whose exhibition MASHENUP opens at KÖNIG SEOUL on 26 OCTOBER 2024. Clédia Fourniau’s paintings are created using acrylic paint, mica, and resin on primed canvas or textile that forms a mirror-glossy surface producing an introspective dialogue between the reflected image and reality. The act of painting is fundamentally dependent on material and process. Rooted in a practice of body in action that is built up in her studio in an extended and unpredictable temporality. She works on the serial and gestural dimension of abstract painting by questioning representation, and the conditions of creation, perception, and reception of a double image. Her approach roams between a formal, controlled, and accidental practice. In the podcast, Clédia talks about her practice, her exhibition at KÖNIG GALERIE, and where she gets her self-confidence as an artist from. This episode is a re-air from a previously recorded podcast with Clédia Fourniau. Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE
- ... with Julia Beliaeva07.10., 11:0007.10.2024, 11:0000:38:48
... with Julia Beliaeva In this episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König welcomes Ukrainian artist Julia Beliaeva. In a conversion in the backdrop of the artist’s booth in the showroom of KÖNIG GALERIE, they speak about Beliaeva’s practice and the circumstances for artist’s in Ukraine. Julia Beliaeva, first and foremost, is a digital artist. Her artworks are born digital and exist beyond the earthly idea of fragility. Beliaeva works with sensitive subjects and tends to amplify their impact by placing them in fragile forms. Her digital creations often find embodiment in ceramics and porcelain. She is interested in how technology affects us and our consciousness, as well as how the new technology can make sense and update traditional media. In particu¬lar, Beliaeva works a lot with porcelain, which allows her to reflect on the heritage and lost traditions through a combination of new technologies and the popularity of Ukraine’s ceramic industry, which is now lost. View the exhibition HERE View the showroom presentation HERE
- ... with Juliette Minchin30.09., 11:0030.09.2024, 11:0000:42:00
... with Juliette Minchin In the new episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König speaks with French sculptor Juliette Minchin, whose works are currently shown in the showroom at KÖNIG GALERIE as well as in the group show METAPHOR TO METAMORPHOSIS at KÖNIG MUNICH. In her work, Juliette Minchin mainly explores concepts linked to transformation. The use of natural materials (earth, wax, wood, iron, or liquid) gives her sculptures an undeniably organic dimension, with surfaces that are close to the skin in their appearance. A marker of the passage of time, each of his works is most often produced in series, presented in different states. In the podcast, König and Minchin speak about her time studying art in Paris, how she developed her own visual language, and how she creates her distinctive wax sculptures. View the exhibition HERE View the showroom presentation HERE
- ... Johann König in Dialog mit Felix Hemmers23.09., 11:0023.09.2024, 11:0000:45:50
... Johann König in Dialog mit Felix Hemmers In dieser Episode von WAS MIT KUNST unterhalten sich Johann König und der Innenarchitekt Felix Hemmers über sinnvolle Nachnutzungen von Kirchengebäuden. Das Gespräch wurde im Rahmen des Architekturfestivals Open House in Essen aufgezeichnet, bei dem König als Gastredner geladen war. Anhand des Beispiels St. Agnes Berlin unterhielten sich König und Hemmers darüber, wie man eine ehemalige Kirche als Galerie und pulsierendes Kulturzentrum etabliert. Welche Chancen bietet eine solche Umgestaltung für andere Kirchen? Wie können solche Räume zu Orten der Kreativität und des Austauschs werden? Diese und weitere Fragen wurden im Gespräch erörtert. Mehr Infos gibt es HIER
- ... with Arjen16.09., 11:0016.09.2024, 11:0000:40:39
... with Arjen In the new episode of WAS MIT KUNST, Johann König is in conversation with Dutch artist Arjen, whose exhibition IDENTITIES is currently on view at KÖNIG GALERIE. Arjen is a self-taught artist who studied violin and became a professor at the Conservatory of Utrecht. Simultaneously Arjen kept painting and sketching while searching for his own visual language. He is drawn to the work of earlier modern painters like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí, as well as the ethnographic sources that inspired them. Arjen’s paintings are filled with surreal and often absurd imagery, which depict a turbulent assortment of feelings, emotions, and personalities. He searches for the fundamental principles behind different styles, as a method of pictorial analysis to then employ in his own works. In the podcast, König and Arjen talk about the switch from music to art, sources of inspiration, and the concept behind the exhibition IDENTITIES. Learn more about the artist HERE View the exhibition HERE
- ... mit Armin Boehm09.09., 11:0009.09.2024, 11:0000:55:55
... mit Armin Boehm In der neuen Folge von WAS MIT KUNST unterhalten sich Johann König und Armin Boehm über den Werdegang des Künstlers, seine „Gesellschaftsportraits“ sowie seine Ausstellung LUST ANGST SCHMERZ EKSTASE, die im Rahmen der Berlin Art Week 2024 in der KÖNIG GALERIE eröffnet. Armin Boehm ist bekannt für seine lebhaften und surrealen Darstellungen des hedonistischen Stadtlebens. Seine dystopischen Gemälde sind kryptisch und unergründlich, grotesk und alptraumhaft zugleich und laden den Betrachter in eine unheimliche und doch irgendwie vertraute Unterwelt ein. Boehms Ansatz geht über die traditionellen Maltechniken hinaus. Er baut Collagen mit Stoffstücken ein und schafft so eine zweite Haut, die seinen Werken Tiefe und Textur verleiht. Diese Methode erhöht die visuelle Komplexität und verleiht seinen Leinwänden eine taktile, fast greifbare Qualität. Durch diesen vielschichtigen Ansatz dienen Boehms Gemälde als eindringlicher Kommentar zur gebrochenen Natur unserer Realität. Mehr Infos über den KÜNSTLER Mehr zur AUSSTELLUNG