Clearance – sculpture

Technique: ceramic technique, stoneware; firing, glazing

Dimensions: 180 cm (H), 87 cm (W), 37 cm (D)

Object: This abstract sculpture is composed of two symmetrically placed massive ceramic forms. The triangular elements are placed facing each other, creating an irregular gap between them, which widens in the centre of the spatial structure. The internal planes of both vertical elements are slightly bent towards the centre. The structural, delicately coarse structure of the blocks and their dark brown, rusty colour give the impression of corroded metal. The sculpture was acquired by the National Museum in Gdańsk directly from the artist on 28 November 1974. Since 1976, Clearance has formed part of the open-air sculpture exhibition in Oliwa Park. It is placed on a low granite plinth measuring 65 × 120 cm, 24 cm high. The statue is not signed.

Place: The sculpture is integrated into the natural landscape of the northern part of the Adam Mickiewicz Park in Oliwa. It forms part of the Gallery of Contemporary Gdańsk Sculpture from the collection of the National Museum in Gdańsk, created on the initiative of the Museum, the District Board of the Association of Polish Artists and Designers (ZPAP) and the City Council. The outdoor gallery, showcasing works by artists from different generations, was officially opened on 30 March 1976.

Information about the author:

Stanisław Konieczny (b. 1933 in Montceau-les-Mines, France, d. 1981 in Gdańsk) studied at the Faculty of Sculpture of the State School of Visual Arts (PWSSP) in Gdańsk – the present-day Academy of Fine Arts. He graduated in 1960 from Prof. Alfred Wiśniewski’s studio. He specialized in ceramic art. He is the author of the ceramic composition and fountain at the Technician’s House in Gdańsk, among others. The artist’s works are held at the National Museums in Gdańsk, Warsaw, Wrocław and Szczecin.

Condition of the object: awaiting renovation

Owner/guardian: The National Museum in Gdańsk

Author of the entry: Andrzej Zagrobelny