Yehonatan Koenig
Study 2 (detail), 2023, graphite on paper, 9 x 12 inches
“Art is not just a form of self-expression, but a tool for exploring the mysteries of life and offering transformative experiences for others.”
—Yehonatan Koenig
Editor-In-Chief Amanda Quinn Olivar in conversation with multi-disciplinary artist Yehonatan Koenig.
Born in Israel and raised in New York City, Yehonatan Koenig received his BFA from the School of Visual Arts in 1989 and an MFA from Hunter College in 1992. For 30 years, he has been at the forefront of the digital arts scene, working as an art director, entrepreneur, engineer, inventor, and immersive event producer. His impressive list of clients includes Disney Interactive & Imagineering, Microsoft, Juniper Networks, DreamWorks Animation, Electronic Arts, Sony, and Vivendi-Universal. In 2014, Koenig's work was recognized by AD Week NY, winning the Best Mobile Creative award at the Mobile Media Summit.
Amanda Quinn Olivar: How do you describe your work?
Yehonatan Koenig: My work explores the relationship between coherence and incoherence, meaning and meaninglessness, solid and void. I seek internal coherence by experimenting with challenging aesthetic conditions, utilizing asymmetry, noise, recursive patterning, and intuitive accidents. I find beauty in this process—like a fleeting glimpse of lightning in the dark, revealing forms previously hidden in the void.
AQO: Are there more particular reasons you focus on this type of imagery?
YK: I'm not interested in predictable pictorial representation. My approach is non-objective, intuitive, and procedural. I push and pull on the tensions and harmony in polarizations, such as light and shadow, pattern and noise, and form and formlessness. My aim is to inspire a sense of inter-connectedness and expanded awareness in viewers, encouraging them to delve into the unknown and embrace the wonder and awe of life.
Gazing through like falling, 2021, ink on paper, 18 x 11 inches
AQO: How did your upbringing influence your artistic direction?
YK: Growing up in Israel, where Kabbalah was central to many cultural practices, and with parents who were avid art collectors and social activists, I developed a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and a curiosity for exploring complex ideas. My mother's seemingly contradictory views on spirituality, where she declared herself an atheist but often pointed to the beauty of nature and said, “See, there is God,” gave me a nuanced perspective on the intricate interplay between context and belief. This perspective continues to drive my curiosity to this day.
AQO: What was the turning point that led you to finally pursue a career as an artist?
YK: After completing my MFA at Hunter College in NYC, the realities of being a working artist crushed my confidence, and I turned away from my passion for many years. But as with any hero's journey, my journey of self-discovery led me back to my true calling. The COVID-19 pandemic allowed me to immerse myself in my creative practice fully. For me, art is not just a form of self-expression, but a tool for exploring the mysteries of life and offering transformative experiences for others. It's a lifelong journey of growth and self-discovery that I'm thrilled to continue.
dance with the ladder, an intricate chase, 2023, from Cartography of void series, ink, graphite and gouache on paper, 12 × 16 inches
Two paths, 2023, from Cartography of void series, ink and graphite on paper, 9 x 12 inches
AQO: What are you making right now?
YK: I am creating a series of large-scale transcendent portals, which I refer to as Cartography of void, that continue my exploration of experiential dualities. With these larger pieces, I have been experimenting with various inks to create toned washes of light and dark, adding depth, complexity, and richness to the pictorial space. This approach introduces delightful accidents, or moments of chaos, into my creative process.
AQO: Do you have a current obsession?
YK: I'm obsessed with cooking, approaching it with the same passion as my art. My current focus is on health and nutrition, inspired by North Africa, Israel, and Sichuan cuisine flavors. Cooking is another way to explore and express my creativity.
I have been listening to eclectic music in the studio, particularly neo-classical composers like Max Richter, Ólafur Arnalds, Nils Frahm, and Jóhann Jóhannsson. Their music provides an inspiring sonic landscape that complements my creative process.
Yehonatan Koenig at the opening of his exhibition, Ink on Paper, at Bestor Architecture Gallery in Los Angeles
AQO: What has been a highlight of your career so far?
YK: Three highlights stand out for me. The first was the electrifying realization that I was fully committed to pursuing an art career, come what may. The second was my recent exhibition at the Bestor Architecture gallery, which showcased two years of my work in a beautiful setting, with packed opening and closing receptions and outstanding reviews. Lastly, a profoundly personal and cherished highlight was when my son expressed genuine appreciation for my work.
AQO: What is your favorite art accident?
YK: My favorite art accident is the unexpected moments of working in ink. Each stroke invites an “accident,” ready to happen at any moment. But these surprises fuel my creative spirit, leading to moments of both humor and philosophical reflection. I find highlights in the moments of wonder, both delightful and daunting that keep me on my toes and bring new life to my work.
