ABOUT / BIO / PUBLICATIONS
The artistic practice of Johann Alexis von Haehling invites profound contemplation of human existence and the broader processes of creation. His work, situated at the threshold between abstraction and figuration, employs vivid contrasts and intricate color dynamics to guide viewers through an exploration of both microcosmic and macrocosmic structures. These include psychological landscapes and multi-planetary imaginaries, reflecting a deeply speculative engagement with contemporary concerns. In the face of political upheaval, social manipulation, and the psychological tolls of modern life, Johann Alexis’ oeuvre offers a rare opportunity for reflection and renewal. His art transcends terrestrial preoccupations, presenting extra-planetary perspectives that foster detachment from immediate psychosocial challenges. Rooted in a vision of harmony, fluidity, and societal dialogue, his artistic philosophy is inextricably tied to the triadic conception of human existence—consciousness, body, and soul. The artist posits that meaningful societal transformation begins with an introspective turn toward the heart, framing art as a vehicle for both personal and collective change. At the core of Johann Alexis von Haehling‘ s artistic inquiry are existential questions that have animated philosophical and art historical discourses: Where do we co me from? Where are we now? And how might we align more harmoniously with the global geo- and bio-system? As the founder of the Arts & Nature Social Club (2017–2023), von Haehling extended these inquiries into a collaborative framework, engaging scientists, artists, and entrepreneurs in Joseph Beuys-inspired „social sculptures.“ These salon-style projects, hosted across global locales, keep on operating as intellectual and inspirational forums, continuing Beuys’ legacy of art as a transformative force within society. Johann Alexis’ abstract paintings are marked by their maximally reduced surfaces and meditative spaces, offering a visual grammar for grappling with these profound themes. His minimalism echoestraditions within 20th-century art movements, such as the geometric abstraction of Frank Stella, the text based art of Jenny Hol zer, and the chromatic explorations between Agnes Martin and Helen Frankenthaler. Furthermore, his aesthetic evokes hard-edge painting’s precision while integrating organic textures derived from natural materials, aluminum, and canvas. These elements converge to imagine future scenarios where humanity thrives in harmony with nature and technology. Engaging eclectically with mid-to-late 20th-century artistic traditions, Johann Alexis von Haehling’ s work underscores a commitment to reduction and simplicity as a counterpoint to the complexity of contemporary life. His synthesis of organic forms and contrasting textures invites viewers to meditate about a „life-serving world,“ aligned with principles of respect, truth, and empathy. In doing so, his art reaffirms the enduring potential of abstraction as a space for addressing humanity’s role within the vast and interconnected processes of creation.
BIO:
The franco-german artist and curator lives between Berlin and Baden-Baden, Germany. His studios are situated in a tiny village, north of France. Johann Alexis von Haehling holds a fellowship at BBUG. Baden-Baden 2025.
2025
Solo show -breather.-, la maison Baden-Baden
Entere Art Fair Kopenhagen, Denmark – Galerie Sept
2024
Light, Dark, Repeat, duo show, Galerie Sept, Brussels, Belgium
Mirrors of perception, group show, Galerie Sept, Knokke, Belgium
Parallel realities: bridging earth & sky, duo show Lee Hyun Jung, Galerie Sept, Brussels, Belgium
Sans Titre, group show, Galerie Sept, Brussels, Belgium
The Voids group show, la maison, Kauffenheim, France
2023
Kunstsommer, group show, Galerie K, Stauffen, Germany
Essenz II, group show la maison, Baden-Baden, Germany
2022
Essenz I, group show, catalogue publication, la maison, Baden-Baden, Germany
2021
Artist in residence, La Maison, France
Meta, sound piece in collaboration with Malcolm Gompf for Meta Group Show at la maison artist residency, France
2018-2023
Arts & Nature Social Club, art project conceived as strategic activism and social sculpture, Berlin, Munich, Los Angeles, Baden-Baden
2014-2020
Kreise, ongoing meditative paper drawing practice project, Berlin, Germany
2005
Heads, art foto project published in Loop Magazine, Berlin, Germany
2003
RED, performative art foto project, published in Stamm Art Magazine, Berlin, Germany
2001-2026
Curating exhibitions with Hermann Nitsch, Julien Schnabel, Erwin Wurm, Nevin Aladag, Sister Corita Kent, Raymond Pettibon, Barry McGee…
PUBLICTATIONS:
Breather
Film & Book to be announced
Essenz
Exhibition Catalogue with Prof. Jürgen Werner Schulz, Malcolm Gompf, Johann Alexis. La Maison 2022.
Meta
Exhibition Catalogue Group Show, Circle Culture 2019
RED
Foto art story 8 pages, Stamm Art Magazine, 2003
REPRESENTATION:
la maison
Gianna von Haehling / Curator
gianna@la-maison.co
https://la-maison.co/
artsy.net/artist/johann-alexis
instagram
johann__alexis