JOHANN KÖNIG - INTERVIEW
We’re thrilled to present an interview with Johann König, one of the most influential gallerists in contemporary art today. As the founder of KÖNIG GALERIE, Johann has redefined the art gallery model with his innovative use of unconventional spaces like the St. Agnes Church in Berlin and his embrace of digital platforms. Representing a roster of world-renowned artists, König has positioned himself as a trailblazer in making contemporary art accessible to wider audiences. This interview delves into his journey, his approach to the art market, and his vision for the future of galleries.
1. Beginning in the art world
You started KÖNIG GALERIE at a very young age. What inspired you to venture into the art world, and how did you develop your vision for the gallery?
Growing up in a family deeply connected to the arts, I was constantly surrounded by creativity, artists, and their works, a world I initially took for granted. Over time my passion for art flourished and I recognized the importance of contemporary art in connecting with the world and people. Even in the face of the challenges, including losing my eyesight, I was driven to establish KÖNIG GALERIE, as a space dedicated to showcasing thought-provoking, conceptual works. From the outset, my idea has been to foster meaningful relationships between artists and their audiences, offering an experience that goes beyond simply viewing art.
2. Challenges and Resilience
Your journey as an almost blind gallerist is extraordinary. How has this shaped your approach to curating and managing the gallery?
My visual impairment has certainly influenced my approach to curating and running the gallery. While I may not experience art in the same way as others, I focus on understanding the emotional and conceptual depth of each piece. Over time, I have learned to trust my intuition and develop strong collaborations with artists and my team, which has allowed me to lead the gallery in a way that transcends physical sight. This has heightened my sensitivity to the essence of the works and their capacity to resonate through different senses. In a way, my blindness has opened up new avenues for experiencing and engaging with art that I may not have otherwise explored.
3. The St. Agnes Space
Transforming the St. Agnes Church into a gallery was a bold move. What drew you to this space, and how has its unique architecture influenced the way art is displayed?
St. Agnes fascinated me because of its raw, monumental architecture and its history as a sacred space. The building’s brutalist design is striking and has a magnificent quality that naturally elevates the art displayed within it. I saw the potential to create a dialogue between the building’s past and the contemporary works we would exhibit. As we continue to work within this space, I feel it’s not just about displaying art but about creating an experience where the architecture itself becomes a part of the narrative we’re telling. As it is such a success story and we gained valuable experience with the careful repurposing of church buildings, we are currently looking for further unused churches to convert into gallery spaces.
4. Digital Innovation
You’ve been a pioneer in integrating digital platforms and NFTs into the gallery model. What role do you think technology plays in the future of art galleries?
Digital innovation has significantly reshaped how we approach galleries and art distribution. For KÖNIG GALERIE, integrating digital platforms and NFTs from the start was a natural evolution, allowing us to reach a global audience and engage with the growing digital art movement. Technology offers fresh opportunities to present and sell art while enabling artists to explore new forms of expression. Our website, koeniggalerie.com, provides detailed information, views, and descriptions of the artworks and allows visitors to inquire and directly purchase them. While physical exhibitions are still vital, the digital space lets us expand beyond traditional gallery models, offering virtual experiences and interactive elements.
5. Art Market Dynamics
How do you see the role of gallerists evolving in the ever-changing art market? What challenges and opportunities do you anticipate in the coming years?
The art market is evolving, and so is the role of the gallerist. In the past, gallerists primarily served as gatekeepers, but today, we are more like curators, collaborators, and advisors. We not only present and sell art but also help artists navigate their careers and guide them in reaching new audiences. Since Covid we adapted our business model by additionally showcasing artists outside of our roster in our growing number of galleries worldwide. This helps us to strengthen the gallery as a dynamic platform for contemporary art in Berlin and beyond and deeply engage with a variety of international artists and collectors to nurture long-term relationships.
6. Supporting Artists
You represent a diverse roster of artists with strong conceptual practices. How do you select artists to work with, and what qualities are most important to you?
At KÖNIG GALERIE, we showcase both emerging and established international artists, with a focus on younger generations. Our program emphasizes interdisciplinary, concept-driven approaches, thus I look for artists who have a strong conceptual vision and a clear voice, individuals who push boundaries and engage with important cultural, social, or political themes. Equally crucial is building a relationship based on trust and mutual respect, which helps us work together in a way that supports the artist’s growth and success. Supporting diverse practices allows the gallery to remain dynamic and relevant.
7. Public Engagement
KÖNIG GALERIE is known for its emphasis on accessibility and public engagement. Why is it important for you to make contemporary art more approachable?
One of the most important aspects of KÖNIG GALERIE is our commitment to accessibility and public engagement. Contemporary art often has a reputation for being exclusive or difficult to approach, but I believe that art should be a tool for public dialogue and connection. Our goal is to make sure that everyone, regardless of their background or experience with art, feels welcome to engage with the works we present. Whether through extended opening hours, artists talks or various online formats, we want people to feel that art is for them, not just for the elite. Of course all our shows are free to visit. We believe that when art becomes accessible, it has the power to inspire and provoke thought in a much broader audience.
8. Global Expansion
With additional locations in Seoul and Mexico City, how do you adapt the gallery’s identity and mission to different cultural contexts?
Expanding KÖNIG GALERIE to cities like Seoul, Mexico City or Munich has been a crucial step in extending our global presence and reaching new audiences. Although each location has its distinct cultural environment, our core mission remains unchanged: to present innovative contemporary art and build meaningful connections between artists, collectors, and the public. Adapting to these new settings requires an understanding of local cultural differences and curating exhibitions that speak to a variety of viewers. It’s essential for us not only to introduce our artists to a wider audience but also to encourage cross-cultural dialogues that challenge and expand the boundaries of contemporary art.
9. Memorable Moments
Looking back at your career, is there a particular exhibition or moment that stands out as especially significant or transformative for you?
There have been so many memorable moments over the years, but the transformation of St. Agnes stands out as a truly defining chapter for the gallery. It was an ambitious project, and the moment the space was ready in 2015 to welcome our first exhibition felt like a huge achievement.
10. Future of Galleries
What is your vision for the future of KÖNIG GALERIE, and how do you see galleries adapting to the evolving needs of artists and audiences?
The future lies in adaptability, embracing technology, fostering inclusivity, and supporting artists in exploring new mediums. I envision KÖNIG GALERIE as a space that evolves alongside the needs of artists and audiences, creating more meaningful and immersive art experiences. Collaboration and innovation will be key.
11. Advice for Aspiring Gallerists
What advice would you give to young people who want to enter the gallery business and make a mark in the art world?
Stay curious, embrace innovation, and take risks. The art world is always evolving, so it’s crucial to understand market shifts and build strong relationships with artists, collectors, and industry professionals. Trust your instincts and vision, and don’t just follow trends, create your own path. Passion, perseverance, and adaptability are key to making a mark in this business.