Abakanowicz. No Rules. Tapestries and Abakans at the Wawel Castle

The exhibition showcases how fabric – regardless of the era – can carry profound aesthetic, spiritual and social meaning. The tapestries, which originally adorned the interiors of the royal castle, displayed power, prestige and world order. Abakanowicz's works, which came off the walls and were suspended in space, challenge this order, opening up to the viewer's individual experience and reflection on the human condition. 
The exhibition will feature the following works by Magdalena Abakanowicz: Red-Brown, Lady I, Lady II, Queen, Anita, Dorota, Dorota III, Ètroit, Abakan with Ropes, Black Garment 8 and Czarna (Black). The tapestries on display will include a selection of verdures with animalistic and landscape themes – including Wolf Devouring the Hare, Fox Devouring a Bird and a Rabbit, Crane with Snake in the Beak – and a monumental figural tapestry God Blesses the Family of Noah. 


For the duration of the exhibition, the Senators’ Hall was changed. In the darkened space with the windows covered, Abakanowicz's works and tapestries create an evocative, almost theatrical setting that encourages contemplation and a personal experience of art. 
The exhibition also raises questions about the place of contemporary art in the historic spaces of royal residences and the new meanings that artistic heritage can take on when juxtaposed with a modern form of expression. 
  
 Curatorial team: 
Dr. Bogumiła Wiśniewska, Natalia Koziara-Ochęduszko, Andrzej Szczepaniak  

Exhibition in cooperation with Starmach Gallery and Marta Magdalena Abakanowicz Kosmowska and Jan Kosmowski Foundation