Artist Friedrich Kunath, a figure often described as a "living contradiction," offers a unique perspective on the material objects he values most. Despite advocating for an "inner freedom not to own anything," his own life is enriched by a curated selection of items that are deeply personal and integral to his artistic endeavors. His choices reveal a fascinating blend of practicality, aesthetic appreciation, and a philosophical detachment from possessions, even as he meticulously selects them.
Kunath's Los Angeles studio is a testament to his refined taste, where Wilson Audio Sasha speakers provide a constant backdrop of diverse musical genres, from Italo disco to Peso Pluma, shaping his creative environment. Beyond the auditory, his sensory world extends to the use of unique fragrances, each carefully chosen to infuse different areas of his workspace with specific, idea-generating aromas. This deliberate creation of sensory experiences highlights his commitment to fostering an inspiring atmosphere for his work.
His discerning eye also extends to personal style and transportation. Kunath's sunglasses of choice are the unpretentious yet stylish Panthos Business, which he admires for their accessible price point and sophisticated look. His wristwatch, a rare vintage Piaget Polo Bumblebee from the late 1970s, stands out as an anti-establishment piece, reflecting a Eurocentric, gender-fluid aesthetic. The Aston Martin Lagonda, a vehicle he describes as a "unicorn" due to its distinctive, avant-garde design and the challenges it presented, is not just a car but a sculptural object that has long been a source of fascination for him.
In his pursuit of comfort and sport, Kunath gravitates towards the Elda Chair by Joe Colombo, an avant-garde and Space Age design from 1963 that offers a sense of security and enclosure. For his athletic pursuits, he meticulously customizes his Babolat Pure Aero tennis racket, demonstrating a hobbyist's dedication to optimizing every detail, a stark contrast to the less analytical approach of professional players. His passion for tennis also led him to subscribe to Tennis TV, reigniting a childhood dream and forming a mentorship with professional player Reilly Opelka.
Every aspect of Kunath's life seems to be approached with thoughtful consideration, from the mundane to the luxurious. He appreciates quality in unexpected places, such as the Erah of Inez organic olive oil he recently acquired. Even a household item like his Ego leaf blower is elevated to an object of obsession, simplifying his daily routines. His studio attire, a Canadian tuxedo paired with Rubinacci Marphy loafers, reflects a casual yet sophisticated aesthetic, complementing his choice of classic Levi's 501s.
The artist's personal and studio fragrances further illustrate his elaborate sensory world. Frederic Malle's Carnal Flower, with its complex blend of herbaceous and carnal tuberose notes, serves as his signature scent, resonating with his appreciation for art, film, and interconnected concepts. For his studio, he employs a rotating selection of room sprays, including Yann Vasnier's L'homme de cœur, Bronnley's English Fern, and even Demeter Play-Doh cologne, each contributing to distinct atmospheric zones designed to spark creativity.
At the heart of Kunath's philosophy is a profound contradiction: while valuing the freedom from material possessions, he also deeply appreciates the objects that enrich his life and fuel his creativity. His collection is not merely about accumulation but about the personal narratives, aesthetic qualities, and sensory experiences that these items offer. Ultimately, his eclectic preferences underscore a life lived with intentionality, where every chosen object contributes to a rich tapestry of experience and inspiration.