- adults
- seniors
- teenagers
- other
PROJECT CATEGORY - VISUAL ARTS
Maciej Cholewa's sculpture referring to the tradition of vernacular metalwork characteristic of Poland, Ukraine and Belarus. The sun motif, which is the center of the composition, refers directly to ornaments found on gates, fences and gardens, especially in the peripheral areas of these countries. Its universality crosses national and cultural borders, symbolizing values common to many cultures such as openness, hospitality, hope and a new beginning.
The use of ribbed bars, whose structure gives the visual impression of the vibration of sunlight, is important in the project. Apart from the aesthetic function, the choice of material also has a symbolic reference - ribbed bars are a material that is widely available, cheap and used every day. Their presence in the work can be perceived as a metaphor for democracy and accessibility, indicating that culture and art should not be treated as something elitist, but accessible to everyone and anyone, regardless of origin or status.
In the artist's interpretation, Rzeszów, although dynamic and modern, like all other metropolises, remains a city built by people who came here from smaller urban centers and rural areas. This mixture of cultures and experiences of its inhabitants fits into the symbolism of the sculpture - the movement of people symbolically corresponds to the movement of the sun and its radiation, constantly migrating above and beyond borders.
"The Sun in the East" can act as a "welcomer", but it is also a landmark and a symbol of openness, showing that real meetings take place where different cultures and attitudes interpenetrate and enrich each other.
Maciej Cholewa - Doctor of Arts at the Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice, assistant at the Intaglio Printing Studio of Prof. Marcin Białas. Visual artist. Author of objects, graphics, drawings, photographs and texts. He focuses on topics related to the peripheries, local identity and vernacular aesthetics. He bases his work on his own micro-narratives and the processing of overheard stories and contexts. He comes from Radzionków, a small town that he treats as an important source of references and inspiration.
Maciej Cholewa - @pozdrowienia_z_malego_miasta
Location - pocket park at Estrada Rzeszowska
Saturday 28.06.2025, 13:00 - meeting with the author of the sculpture.
We invite you!
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Project as part of the East of Culture festival European Stadium of Culture 2025.