Muzeum Susch - Lecture: Ann Coxon

Lecture: Ann Coxon

Lecture: Ann Coxon

Sculpting Feelings: Tapta and the Textile Art of the 1970s

The lecture focuses on Tapta’s contributions to textile art in the 1970s, examining how she expanded the medium’s potential through spatial and environmental works. It explores her transition from traditional weaving to creating flexible, tactile sculptures that invite interaction. The lecture also highlights Tapta’s role in the broader movement of New Tapestry and Fiber Art, emphasizing her desire to "sculpt in feelings." Through her innovative use of materials like sisal, jute, and neoprene, she redefined sculpture by engaging viewers physically and emotionally, transforming spaces into environments that encourage dialogue and sensory exploration.

CULTURAL STATEMENT

¬ Engaging History to create dialogues:

Grażyna Kulczyk sets great store by her role as an ambassador for contemporary Polish and Middle Eastern European art, which has long been omitted from the canon and tended to be overlooked by the majority of Western critics and collectors, due to the particular political environment of the former Eastern bloc states. Beyond this general ambition, her collecting strategy at Muzeum Susch also reflects two key interests: international artists have joined the collection, opening up new perspectives and highlighting contrasts between works, but also hinting at parallels and raising questions about the multifarious and complex relations between East and West in general. These expanded perspectives and contrasts within the collection provide the basis for commentary on complex and timely global concerns. The women’s perspective in the collection adds a clear feminist mission to Grażyna Kulczyk's endeavors, whose own history as an independent, creative entrepreneur is at the root of her deep understanding and emotional connection to issues women face in their artistic practice. Her collection at Muzeum Susch reflects this interest, inviting and encouraging participation, contributing to the recognition and greater visibility of women - as artists and elsewhere."

Grażyna Kulczyk, photo: © Anoush Abrar for Art Stations Foundation CH / Muzeum Susch