Artist Friedrich Kunath, known for his sincere yet absurd paintings, discusses his unlikely friendship with tennis star Reilly Opelka, who is also an art collector. The two share a mutual obsession with each other's crafts—Kunath coaches Opelka in tennis, while Opelka seeks Kunath's insights on artists like Philip Guston. Kunath is preparing for his solo debut at Pace Gallery in New York this November, following his move from Blum Gallery, which closed shortly after. He reflects on the loneliness of both tennis and art, and his creative process, which draws heavily from music and film.
This story matters because it highlights the cross-pollination between the art world and professional sports, revealing how artists and athletes navigate similar pressures of isolation and capitalism. Kunath's rising market status—with ten buyers for every painting, according to Pace's Marc Glimcher—and his institutional recognition underscore his growing significance in contemporary art. The article also offers insight into the emotional and intellectual depth behind Kunath's work, challenging perceptions of sincerity in art.