Kai Althoff, Souffleuse der Isolation ; [follows the Exhibition Kai Althoff. Ich Meine es auf Jeden Fall Schlecht mit Ihnen, Kunsthalle Zürich, 10.11.2007 - 13.1.2008, Kunsthalle Zürich]

More about the book

This comprehensive publication is Kai Althoff's third monograph, featuring never-before-seen works alongside images from every stage of his career, with a focus on pieces created since 2002. The artist views this as a more cohesive retrospective than any exhibition could provide. The selection of images documents his work while reflecting on his evolving perspectives. The book captures the emotional essence of Althoff's creations, showcasing personal photographs, paintings, and writings that convey a sense of “failed satire” with a blend of nostalgia and self-deprecation. This emotional landscape contrasts with the inherent beauty and craftsmanship that captivated the artist during their creation. It also explores the re-evaluation of past works and the emotional contexts in which they were created, examining how these reflections influence his self-portrayals. Additionally, the volume includes a dialectical text by Angus Cook, inspired by Althoff's work, which serves as a conceptual foundation for the monograph, though it does not mention him by name. A text by Dr. Patrik Scherrer on the use of textiles in Althoff's work is also featured. This publication is a collaboration with Kunsthalle Zürich.