Eike König & Freedom: A conversation about art, courage and life
What does freedom mean to you? This simple question has infinitely many answers. In a Kreuzberg studio, surrounded by art and design, two creative minds met to find their own answers. A project at the Museum of Values brought them together: renowned professor and artist Eike König and dedicated student Luzie.
What began as an interview quickly developed into a deep, honest conversation. A dialogue between generations about the search for independence, the role of art, and the courage to forge one's own path.
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Eike König's path to artistic freedom
For Eike König, whose career began at the renowned design studio HORT, freedom was initially a professional choice. "For me, professional freedom means being able to decide for myself who I work for, with whom I work, and how I work," he explains. Self-employment was his first, decisive step.
But the true transformation came later, triggered by the coronavirus pandemic. It was a turning point when he consciously stepped back from commissioned work to devote himself to free art. He describes this moment as a need to regain control: "I just wanted some time for myself. To be just myself, to be responsible for myself, and to truly decide for myself what I do with my time." It was the step from professional freedom to complete artistic freedom.
A new generation, a new perspective
Luzie brings a different, more social dimension to the conversation. For her, freedom is inextricably linked to the well-being of the community. "I feel most free when everyone is doing well and we can meet on equal terms," she explains.
Their idea of freedom is concrete and anchored in everyday life: safe streets at night, cities with fewer cars. It's a freedom that focuses not only on the "I," but on the "we."
What connects both: courage, art and dialogue
Although their perspectives differ, Eike König and Luzie quickly find common ground. Their most important insight: freedom requires courage. "You have to dare to try new things and trust that it will work out," Eike summarizes.
For both, art and design are the central tools for expressing this freedom. They are means of questioning social norms, making personal experiences visible, and opening up new perspectives.
Conclusion: Freedom grows through exchange
After the conversation, one thought in particular stuck with Luzie: "You should take time for such conversations more often – even with people outside your own bubble."
This exchange impressively demonstrated that freedom is not a static state. It is a personal journey that constantly evolves through courageous decisions, new experiences, and, above all, open dialogue with others. It is both an individual quest and a shared task. And it thrives precisely where people meet, learn from one another, and explore new paths together.
