René Konings is a Norwegian contemporary artist who works at the intersection of urban chaos and the quiet reflection of the studio. He is known for collecting materials from the urban environment—such as posters, stickers, rust, and flaking paint—and giving them new life through his artworks. By using materials that might otherwise be overlooked, he challenges traditional notions of artistic media and highlights the aesthetics of reuse.
René's artistic practice is deeply rooted in the rawness and decay of the city. Inspired by urban settings and the street art scene, he has transitioned from the informal realms of street art to the world of galleries, yet his roots in urban expression remain evident. This transition has led to an exploration of urban contemporary art, where elements of street culture meet the more contemplative art scene.
His works combine the raw and the refined, showcasing how seemingly worthless objects can be revitalized. Through his attention to detail, he invites viewers to reflect on the passage of time, consumption, and renewal. In an era where sustainability is increasingly important, Konings questions society's consumer culture while celebrating the aesthetic complexity of urban life.