Supervisor in the Doctoral School

Born in 1970 in Gliwice, he completed his diploma in sculpture in 1994 at the Academy of Fine Arts in Wrocław. In 1993, he received a scholarship from the Ministry of Culture and Arts, followed by a scholarship from the Swiss Confederation Government for young artists in 1994. Between 1994 and 1996, he pursued further studies at the École Supérieure d'Arts Visuels in Geneva. Since 1996, he has been affiliated with the Academy of Fine Arts in Wrocław. He earned his doctoral degree in 2006, followed by habilitation in 2017. Since 2018, he has held the position of associate professor. From 1996 to 2012, he conducted sculpture classes, and since 2011, he has been leading an Art in the Public Space Studio in the Department of Art’s Mediation. He played a key role in establishing a new field of study at the Academy of Fine Arts in Wrocław – Art Mediation, serving as its head from 2012 to 2014. Additionally, he founded postgraduate programs in Art Mediation and Art Market, which he has overseen since 2019. As of 2021, he serves as the vice-chairman of the Artistic Discipline Council at the Academy of Fine Arts in Wrocław.

ARTIST STATEMENT

My practice encompasses sculpture, installation, performance, interventions in public spaces, and design. I craft objects and inventions using a range of techniques, often collaborating with skilled professionals and artisans. My artistic repertoire frequently incorporates machinery or devices designed to actively engage the audience. These participatory sculptures not only involve viewers but also prompt them to assume predetermined roles or postures. Moreover, I develop attributes specifically tailored for live performances.

I regard my creations as a commentary on contemporary events and the surrounding societal landscape, driven by a deep interest in politics and social dynamics. Beyond my artistic pursuits, I am committed to community engagement, conducting workshops for youth, adults, and marginalized individuals, including those grappling with mental health issues, disabilities, and persistent unemployment.

Achievement

2015 DISPOSSESSION - Palazzo Dona Brusa - la 56 Biennale di Venezia – Wenecja,

2016 NIEMCY NIE PRZYSZLI – Kunsthaus - Drezno, Niemcy,

2018 TOMASZ OPANIA SALON WZORNICTWA – BWA - Wrocław,

2022 NA WSCHODZIE BEZ ZMIAN, with Krzysztof Skrzynecki, galeria Mieszkanie

Gepperta, Wrocław

2023 IT’S ALREADY BEEN BETTER, MIDWAY GALLERY, Boston, USA

Characteristic of the projects and research in which the PhD student is to be subsumed, including the expected practical and theoretical competencies of the PhD student:

Research on broadly understood issues related to sculpture, installation, performance, art in public space and design. It will be particularly interesting for the promoter to pay attention to such issues and phenomena as:

1. Strategies for integrating art into public spaces, exploring innovative approaches and challenges in this endeavor.
2. Initiatives aimed at fostering inclusion and collaboration with socially excluded groups and local communities, highlighting the transformative potential of art in social contexts.
3. The exploration of non-institutional channels for the dissemination and reception of art, shedding light on alternative modes of artistic engagement and interaction.
4. Examination of artistic practices rooted in cooperation and collectivism, emphasizing collaborative processes and their impact on artistic production and reception.
5. Analysis of creative strategies centered on participation and relational aesthetics, elucidating how art can foster meaningful connections and dialogue among participants.
6. Investigation into the performative and interactive nature of audience engagement, exploring the dynamics of participatory art experiences and their implications.
7. Exploration of artistic interventions as commentary on contemporary socio-political events, highlighting the role of art in reflecting, critiquing, and shaping societal discourse.
8. Examination of contemporary creative practices and strategies, encompassing diverse approaches and methodologies employed by artists in response to evolving cultural and societal contexts.
9. By delving into these themes, researchers can deepen their understanding of the complex intersections between art, society, and culture, contributing to broader discussions within the field of contemporary art and beyond.

Characteristic of didactic cooperation between the supervisor and the PhD student:

Effective communication skills, a strong commitment to working with students, and a genuine interest in addressing current socio-political issues are essential qualities for the role. The candidate should possess a solid foundation in art and culture, with a particular emphasis on developments since the mid-twentieth century. Additionally, organizational and planning skills are necessary to successfully coordinate various aspects of academic and research activities.