Czech Artist Jiří Příhoda Sculpts 'Karbola' as a Timber Lantern at Castle Bechyně
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Loading... - Lydia Zeno
- 15 Jul 2024
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The sculpture park surrounding the Renaissance-era Bechyně Castle in the Czech Republic has recently welcomed an intriguing new addition: Karbola, a captivating work by artist Jiří Příhoda that seamlessly blends art and architecture. Drawing inspiration from the simple form of a wooden shed, Příhoda has crafted a structure that defies traditional expectations, creating an illusionistic and visually striking piece.
An Innovative Architectural Sculpture
Unconventional Design
Karbola starts with the familiar image of a wooden shed but quickly deviates with its unconventional geometric proportions. The structure appears almost intentionally dysfunctional in its ability to shelter its contents from the elements. This illusion is achieved through strategic cladding, with wider gaps between the wooden planks than typically found in traditional sheds.
Play of Light and Shadow
The use of wider gaps between the planks is a technique with deep roots in architectural history, often employed to create a dialogue between light and shadow. Příhoda takes this concept to an extreme in Karbola, with gaps present even on the roof. While this design choice renders the structure incapable of protecting against rain, it creates a mesmerizing play of light and shadow that blurs the line between interior and exterior space.
A Sculptural Shed with a Twist
Dynamic Daytime Display
During the day, sunlight filters through the gaps in Karbola's cladding, casting intricate geometric patterns inside the structure. These patterns change continuously as the day progresses, offering visitors a dynamic visual experience.
Transformative Nighttime Glow
At night, Karbola undergoes another transformation. Příhoda cleverly inverts an existing park lamp to illuminate the interior of the structure, turning it into a giant lantern. The warm, inviting glow encourages passersby to seek refuge within its illuminated white walls.
Artistic and Historical Significance
The Title 'Karbola'
The name Karbola is a nod to a nearly century-old technique used for protecting rural wooden structures. This method involves applying used engine oil, typically dark brown or black, in place of paint. Příhoda combines this treatment with the white interior and open gaps to emphasize the structure's geometric grid. As the wood weathers over time, the imperfections become more pronounced, giving Karbola a rustic aesthetic.
Freedom of Expression at Bechyně Castle
2024 Exhibition Theme
Karbola is part of the 2024 edition of the Bechyně Castle and Sculpture Park exhibition, which explores the concept of freedom in its various forms. This year's theme celebrates artistic freedom throughout history and the freedom of collectors to re-contextualize art. The exhibition highlights the power of diverse perspectives and honors contemporary artists like Příhoda who push boundaries and tackle thought-provoking themes through their work.
The Stava Family Collection
In addition to Karbola, visitors can explore the Stava Family Collection, featuring over 120 works by nearly 40 artists. This unique collection, showcased for the first time in the historical granary building, provides a window into the European avant-garde movements of the 20th century following World War II.
Conclusion
Jiří Příhoda's Karbola is a standout piece in the Bechyně Castle and Sculpture Park exhibition, blending traditional architectural elements with modern artistic innovation. Its dynamic interplay of light and shadow, combined with its historical and cultural significance, makes it a must-see for visitors. The 2024 exhibition, with its theme of freedom, celebrates the transformative power of art and the limitless creativity of contemporary artists.
