Magdalena Abakanowicz was a highly regarded sculptor and fiber artist from Poland. She passed away on April 20, 2017, in Warsaw at the age of 86 after a long battle with illness.
Throughout her career, Abakanowicz gained recognition for her innovative works, which utilized materials such as sisal and burlap.
Her sculptures effectively conveyed the weight of political oppression, the struggles faced by individuals, and the hardships found in nature. Today, we honor the lasting impact she made through her captivating creations.
Who Is Magdalena Abakanowicz?
Born on June 20, 1930, in Falenty, Poland, Magdalena Abakanowicz began her artistic journey at the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts, where she dedicated her time from 1950 to 1954 to refining her skills. Over the span of 50 years, Abakanowicz established herself as one of the most influential sculptors of the 20th century.
Her difficult upbringing greatly influenced her artistic expression as she sought to overcome the traumas of her own childhood. Falenty, a country estate southwest of Warsaw, was the birthplace of Marta Abakanowicz, as she was named at birth.
Her father, Konstanty, had a diverse heritage with Russian, Polish, and Tatar roots, and their family name originated from Abaqa Khan, a significant historical figure and great-grandson of Genghis Khan. Today, Abakanowicz’s artistic legacy continues to inspire and provoke contemplation, leaving a profound impact on the art world and beyond.
Transforming Materials
– From Sisal to Brooding Forms
Abakanowicz’s artistic prowess resided in her ability to transform ordinary materials into thought-provoking forms. She exhibited a distinct affinity for natural elements, such as sisal, burlap, wood, stone, and fiber.
Her creations, rooted in the essence of the human form, effortlessly captured its profound depth and evoked intense emotional responses.
Meet Her Husband, Jan Kosmowski
In 1956, Magdalena Abakanowicz embarked on a lifelong journey of love and creativity by marrying Jan Kosmowski, a talented civil engineer. Their union blossomed and endured until her passing, serving as a testament to their unwavering support and profound connection.
Beyond his role as her husband, Jan also became her trusted business manager, employing his engineering expertise to bolster her artistic endeavors.
Although limited information is available about Jan Kosmowski’s personal life and career, his steadfast dedication to supporting Abakanowicz’s artistic vision remains evident.
Undisclosed Children
Throughout their union, Magdalena Abakanowicz and Jan Kosmowski built a remarkable legacy together. Regrettably, details about their children, if they had any, remain undisclosed.
However, their enduring love and shared commitment to their craft and each other left an indelible mark on the art world and the hearts of many.
