The Ursynów Cultural Centre “Alternatywy” is hosting Warsaw’s first showcase of Marta Klonowska’s glass animal sculptures, a free exhibition open until August 30.
Exhibition Overview
At the Ursynów Cultural Centre “Alternatywy”, Warsaw’s first showcase of Marta Klonowska’s works is underway. “Glass Menagerie” is a free display of colorful animal sculptures made from shards of glass, open to visitors until August 30.
About the Artist
Born in the capital in 1964, Klonowska has long crafted large‑scale forms from glass “waste”, mounting them on metal frames. Each figure is assembled from hundreds of hand‑cut fragments, resembling a meticulously constructed 3D stained glass. She draws inspiration from the paintings of old masters—Rubens, Snyders, Wegener—extracting animals from pictorial backgrounds and giving them autonomous life.
Inspiration and Technique
Visitors in Warsaw will see foxes, cats, and birds previously displayed in Berlin and Venice, as well as the newest piece, “Kuropatwa”, created in dialogue with Józef Chełmoński’s canvas “Kuropatwa” (1891).
Title Significance
The exhibition’s title alludes to Tennessee Williams’ drama. The organizer notes that, like the play’s characters, the glass creatures are simultaneously beautiful and potentially dangerous: they captivate with color and light while reminding us of the fragility of the material. Their sparkling surface reflects the room’s illumination, producing dynamic reflections that enliven the composition.
Practical Details
The opening with Marta Klonowska took place on June 6 at 8 p.m. The exhibition is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on weekdays, and from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. Admission remains free; organized groups are encouraged to contact the centre’s reception in advance (Indira Gandhi 9). The Ursynów Cultural Centre also offers curator‑led tours.
Why Visit?
With its convenient location just a few minutes’ walk from the Stokłosy metro station, the display offers an attractive summer cultural stop. Klonowska’s vivid, luminous animals attract both contemporary art enthusiasts and families with children. On a summer walk, stop by “Alternatywy” to witness how fragile glass can transform into dazzling, energetic sculptures.
Kaynaklar: Gazeta, Ursynów Cultural Centre “Alternatywy”
