Studio visit with Astrid Krehan

Using a moving camera or superimposing images, she creates unique abstractions: photographic artist Astrid Krehan dedicates her work to the world of surface structures, shapes, and colors. The obvious is cast in a new light and takes on a new intensity of perception. Chinese culture has a major influence on her work, and the artist, who travels to China regularly, feels a deep connection to it. Together with the independent association Sinokultur, which promotes a differentiated view of Chinese art and culture in Switzerland, Astrid Krehan invited guests to visit her studio in Zurich on September 27. The artist explained her artistic career, her fascination with Chinese culture, and gave rare insights into her working processes. Krehan is planning a longer stay in China in the future to further develop her artistic position and expand existing bridges between the Eastern and Western worlds.

The artist's work is also closely linked to her biography: Krehan grew up in Germany, has since lived in a number of countries, and has broadened her horizons through travel. Her artistic interest in structures and patterns is based on her background in surface science, in which she also earned her doctorate. This knowledge allows her to see our environment in extraordinary ways, which she captures photographically. A professional move to Shanghai in 2014 marked a turning point in her work: attracted by the unique city, Krehan shifted her artistic focus from wildlife, portrait, and street photography to a personal abstract style characterized by an experimental approach to light (reflections) and patterns.