A Conversation with Henning Strassburger

Henning Strassburger (b. 1983 in Meissen, Germany) explores the intersection of identity, mass media, and self-representation in the digital age. Known primarily for his colorful paintings, he has recently added figuration to his abstract practice. Strassburger’s works blend autobiographical elements with pop culture references, examining how identity is shaped by social media and consumer culture.

At the heart of his practice is Alphakenny, an alter ego representing a fictionalized version of the artist grappling with artistic and social expectations. This figure navigates the tensions between personal identity and self-promotion, enriching the compositions with irony and cultural references.

Strassburger lives and works in Berlin. He studied at the Akademie der Künste in Düsseldorf. His work has been featured in numerous group exhibitions, including Kunstraum Potsdam (2022), Kunsthal Rotterdam (2020), Deichtorhallen Hamburg (2019), Aishti Foundation, Beirut (2018), and Bundeskunsthalle, Bonn (2016).

I have the pleasure of asking Henning about his current exhibition, what made him become an artist, what the greatest joy art has brought to his life, and so much more.

UZOMAH: What are you trying to convey with art? What is the most consistent theme that you find yourself more pulled to than others?

HENNING: I don't aim to send a direct one-to-one message. Art, and painting in particular, is more interesting due to its ambiguity.

I think thematically, I try to provide some sort of visual commentary on the present, which has a certain loudness and pace. That's what interests me.

U: For the first time, you have included sculptures in your current exhibition, KÖPFE (en: heads), a title that reflects the theme of identity and self-representation. How was the process of creating these sculptures different for you than when you first made abstract art?

H: The process is pretty much the same. The sculptures are quite rudimentary, just a basic shape with two ears and a broad grin. Since they're made of plaster, I had to create them at a certain speed, even though there was a lot of trial and error involved. Honestly, it felt exactly the same.

U: Your work is known for exploring the intersection of identity, mass media, and self-representation in the digital age. How has your work changed since your first piece of artwork was exhibited?

H: It's only developed in form. But in the end, I'm looking for a way to explore where I, or we, stand in the present.

U: How do you decide on a title for each piece of artwork? Does it depend on the theme?

H: It does!. It's a cool process. Sometimes, they come about while working; sometimes, it's like a slogan for a billboard ad for the work itself. I really like it.

U: What is the greatest joy that creating art has brought to your life? How does this satisfaction fuel your artistic journey?

H: I don't think it's about my personal joy and satisfaction. I work on a theme as seriously and intensively as I can, and I hope that it interests a few more people than just myself.

U: Known for your dynamic and bold approach to creating abstract art, what drives you to push the boundaries and create art that is so distinct and striking?

H: I have no idea. I wake up in the morning and want to do what I do.

U: What made you become an artist?

H: Willpower.

U: What type of abstract art are you most influenced by? How do you think people challenge their view of abstract art in their response to seeing it?

H: I like art that wasn't created for decoration only. You can tell when there's more to it. At least, that's my personal standard as a viewer.

U: What significant lesson have you learned since entering the art world that still resonates with you? How does this lesson guide you in your current aspirations as an artist?

H: The art world is a lonely place, and you can only trust your own instincts.

For more information about Henning’s artwork, please visit his site here. The magazine did a showcase on his current exhibition at KÖNIG GALERIE and can be found here.

A Conversation with Henning Strassburger

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