What are you currently working on—and what do you find particularly stimulating or challenging about it?
Victor Auberjonois: My main focus at the moment is ›Polyphonic Views‹, where the most challenging aspect is coordinating communication with such a large and diverse group of artists. In parallel, I’m also working on my research project, ›Predict‹—a process aimed at measuring the relative factors that contribute to an artist’s relevance.
Konrad Biedenkopf: We are currently working on our first large exhibition in Shedhalle of Funkhaus which will open as part of Spatial Festival during Berlin Art Week. We are working with over 30 artists and showing over 70 works, which is a huge departure from our 1-work shows at Hermannplatz. It’s incredibly exciting to create a show of this size and to bring together so many artists we admire, but at the same time it’s very challenging, especially because most of the work is done by the two of us. Still, we are incredibly thankful for the support of friends and many of the artists.
Do you have a daily ritual that gives you structure or inspiration?
V. A.: Back stretching, my posture is out of control.
K. B.: There are quite a few that are an attempt to minimise the decisions I have to make during the day, and reduce distractions. Planning and repetition help me stay focused while giving me space to become inspired.
What kind of music do you listen to when you want to focus or reconnect with your creative process?
V. A.: Ambient minimal techno (Thank you, Deepchord).
K. B.: I listen to music almost all day long. A lot of electronic music, classical instrumental, jazz or metal. It really depends on the overall mood and mindset I’m in.
Has there been a book that fundamentally changed your perspective—and why would you recommend it?
V. A.: ›The Situation Is Hopeless but Not Serious: The Pursuit of Unhappiness‹ by Paul Watzlawick. It cleverly critiques self-help clichés while offering real insight into the ways we often construct our own unhappiness.
K. B.: ›Stand Out of Our Light‹ by James Williams. It’s an exploration of the ethical implications of modern technology on individual freedom and society. I believe it can help anyone re-evaluate their own relationship with the devices and ›services‹ they are using every day.
Is there a work of art you would love to have in your home?
V. A.: ›Le déjeuner des canotiers‹—my shared vision of a good moment with Renoir.
K. B.: Of course there are many, but if I could only have one, it would probably be Théodore Rousseau’s ›Le Mont-Blanc, vu de la Faucille. Effet de tempête‹.
Which exhibition venue in Berlin inspires you?
V. A.: For the art: Gemäldegalerie. For the presentation: The Feuerle Collection.
K. B.: Boros Collection.
Is there an object that accompanies you and reflects a part of your identity?
V. A.: My trench coats. I’m drawn to their structure and versatility.
K. B.: No.
What keeps you going, even in moments of doubt?
V. A.: Momentum.
Which personality would you like to have a conversation with—and what would you talk about?
V. A.: Lucio Amelio. I’d love to hear about his references and reflections that led him to Piece Unique.
K. B.: I would like to have a conversation with Johny Ive about the design of the digital products we use every day, how they create the adverse effects they now seem to be having, and I would like to understand how he sees the future.
What do you look forward to when your working day comes to an end?
V. A.: Dreaming up elaborate plans that quietly fuel the next day.
K. B.: To speak with my partner and to regain energy for the next day.