Thanks to Google Doodle, the young generation is discovering hidden gems of artists, activists, pioneers, and influential figures.
Yesterday, the Doodles paid tribute to the extraordinary world of Magdalena Abakanowicz, the Polish sculptor who molded art to inspire generations to come.
We explore her life and her contribution to modern art.
Who Is Magdalena Abakanowicz?
EDUCATION
Magdalena Abakanowicz was born on 20 June 1930 in the small village of Falenty, near Warsaw.
She completed her school education in Tczew from 1945 to 1947. Her artistic penchant encouraged her to pursue a two-year course at the Liceum Sztuk Plastycznych in Gdynia.
After her graduation in 1949, she enrolled in the Academy of Fine Arts in Sopot, Gdańsk. She transferred back to Warsaw in 1950 at the prestigious Academy of Fine Arts.
POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIAL INFLUENCES
University is the core ground for shaping an individualistic view of the world. But the tumultuous time period between 1950 to 1954 was dictated by the censored versions of art as the only acceptable form. The Eastern Bloc leaders had imposed several restrictions on the depiction of any art form.
Communist nations established a foundation of Socialist realism under the pretext of strict guidelines and limitations on creativity. Poland’s art culture seemed stuck in 19th-century traditions, only allowing realistic artistic depictions. Any abstract art was considered an offense to the national sentiment.
MAGDALENA’S SELF DISCOVERY
The brilliant minds of the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts were considered a threat to their “national doctrines,” with extreme scrutiny from the Ministry of Art and Culture.
Such a restrictive environment actually compelled Magdalena to seek freedom in her artistic abilities. There was a rebellion in the air, and she channeled this inspiration into her unconventional art.
MAGDALENA’S INFLUENCE
With over 25 years as a professor at the esteemed University of Fine Arts in Poznan, Poland, Magdalena continued to relay her knowledge and creativity to future generations.
University of California, Los Angeles, was fortunate enough to witness her genius when she was invited as a visiting professor.
Is Magdalena Abakanowicz Dead? How Did Magdalena Abakanowicz Die?
After putting up a strong fight with prolonged illnesses, Magdalena Abakanwicz passed away on 20 April 2017 at the age of 87. However, the exact details of the cause of her death are not revealed yet.
Her posthumous tribute explores her rebellion, perception, worldview, and attaining artistic freedom.
What Type of Art Did Magdalena Abakanowicz Create?
Magdalena pioneered a unique art form stemming from textiles.
She used vivid textures to create stunning sculptures and exhilarating outdoor installations.
Her sculptures were the epitome of poems that depicted the pressures of political institutions and how contemporary art is oblivious to these constraints.
Some of her most acclaimed art in history include Agora in Chicago and Birds of Knowledge of Good and Evil in Milwaukee.
Who Is Magdalena Abakanowicz’s Husband?
Magdalena Abakanowicz was married to Jan Kosmowski for more than 60 years until her death.
Jan and Magdalena’s shared interest in arts and the philosophy behind it strengthens their bond as a couple. Jan respected Magdalena’s endeavors and even took up the role of her business manager.
Not much information is available on Jan Kosmowski’s personal life, but he sure was a pillar of strength for Magdalena in her pursuit of freedom in the arts.
What are your opinions on Magdalena’s art? Do you think her sculptures have poetic symbolism? Do you think politics has a substantial influence on art, or is it the other way around? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
