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Centre of Contemporary Art Znaki Czasu

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Created in a technique devised by the author and digitally printed, the work presents a geometrical and symmetrical composition – black, charcoal-grey, white, and red – based on the motif of rhythmically arranged horizontal and diagonal lines. The main role is played by the illusory nature of space and movement created by the visual forms appearing in the work. The rectangular frame is surrounded by margins on four sides. Along the left and right sides, there are identical, vertical stripes filled with thick, horizontal, black-charcoal-grey-and-white lines. The upper and lower sides are also identical, diagonal, thick, white-red lines, falling at the bottom and rising at the top. Unlike the lines along the left and right sides, these are much narrower mirror reflections. The white-red lines resemble the warning tapes used for industrial health and safety in order to protect road works from outsiders’ interference. The “frame” prepared thereby is filled with a charcoal-grey background, horizontally traversed by white stripes, deformed in such a way as to create an optical illusion of a convexity in the centre. As the title of the work suggests, the central oval resembles an eye. Another interesting symbolic motif are the mysterious “road tapes” which, like eyelids, secure and protect the eyeball. Thus, despite the obvious geometrical abstraction of the form, we have inspirations coming from natural forms – the point of departure for the artist’s formal play and technical virtuosity. What is most suggestive in this work is the illusion of movement and space, achieved by the rhythmical play of stripes and chiaroscuro. The illusory motif draws our sight towards some interior, suggesting the existence of some backstage, invisible plane. Such a tape demarcates spaces that passers-by cannot enter. Our sight, on the other hand, wants to travel inside, behind the apparent symmetry and calmness of the composition, while the white-red margins introduce anxiety and signal some hidden danger. [M. Krzyżanowska]

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Artist Biography

Zdzisław Maklakiewicz: A Painter Caught Between War and Expression

Zdzisław Maklakiewicz (1927-1977) remains a figure shrouded in both artistic promise and tragic circumstance—a Polish actor and painter whose oeuvre reflects the turbulent spirit of postwar Poland. Born in Warsaw on July 9, 1927, he was the nephew of composers Jan and Tadeusz Maklakiewicz, inheriting a musical lineage that would subtly inform his own creative endeavors. His life intersected dramatically with World War II, during which he served valiantly in the Home Army—a clandestine resistance movement—taking part in the Warsaw Uprising under the pseudonym “Hanzen.” This courageous act of defiance cemented his place in Polish history and underscored his unwavering commitment to freedom.

Early Life & Education: Maklakiewicz’s formative years were marked by intellectual curiosity and artistic inclination. He pursued studies in acting at Kraków University, honing his craft before graduating from the Theatre Academy of Warsaw in 1950. This academic grounding provided him with a critical understanding of dramatic performance and its role in conveying emotion and ideas.
Theatre Career: Maklakiewicz’s theatrical career spanned several prominent stages across Poland. He graced the boards of Teatr Syrena, Teatr Polski, and Teatr Ludowy, collaborating with respected directors and immersing himself in diverse roles—from Shakespearean tragedies to contemporary dramas. Notably, he performed extensively in Gdańsk (Coastal Theatre) and Wrocław (Chamber Theatre), showcasing versatility and demonstrating a dedication to theatrical excellence.
Film Appearances: Beyond the theatre, Maklakiewicz ventured into filmmaking, appearing alongside notable actors like Jan Himilsbach and Andrzej Kondratiuk. His roles contributed to Polish cinematic history, capturing moments of social realism and exploring themes of human experience.

The Artist’s Vision: Painting as Reflection
While primarily recognized for his acting performances, Maklakiewicz possessed a considerable talent for painting—a passion that blossomed after the war. His artistic style leaned toward expressive realism, characterized by bold brushstrokes and vibrant colors. Influenced by Surrealism and Expressionism, he sought to convey inner emotions and psychological states through visual imagery.

FX-Eye: One of his most celebrated works, “FX-Eye,” exemplifies this stylistic approach—a captivating portrait that captures a profound gaze and hints at hidden depths. This painting demonstrates Maklakiewicz’s ability to distill complex feelings into a single visual element.

Recurring Themes: Recurring motifs in Maklakiewicz's paintings included landscapes imbued with melancholy, portraits depicting individuals grappling with existential questions, and still lifes that conveyed both beauty and fragility. These themes resonated deeply with the anxieties and aspirations of his time—a period marked by rebuilding after devastation.

Tragedy & Legacy
Despite his artistic achievements, Maklakiewicz’s life was tragically curtailed by alcoholism—a debilitating struggle that ultimately led to his untimely demise in October 1977. Accounts describe a disturbing incident where he was brutally assaulted by police officers while intoxicated—a stark reminder of the social challenges faced by individuals battling addiction.

Recognition: Though his life ended prematurely, Maklakiewicz’s artistic legacy endured. His paintings continue to be exhibited and studied, offering insights into the psychological landscape of postwar Poland and demonstrating a remarkable ability to translate emotion onto canvas.

Further Exploration
To delve deeper into Zdzisław Maklakiewicz's life and work, consult resources such as Wikipedia () and WahooArt.com (), where you can discover additional information about his artistic output.

zdzisław maklakiewicz

1927 - 1977 , Poland

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Postwar Polish Art
Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Edgar Allan Poe']
Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- Jan Maklakiewicz
- Tadeusz Maklakiewicz
Date Of Birth: July 9, 1927
Full Name: Zdzisław Maklakiewicz
Nationality: Polish
Notable Artworks: ['FX-Eye']
Place Of Birth: Warsaw, Poland

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Further Exploration
To delve deeper into Zdzisław Maklakiewicz's life and work, consult resources such as Wikipedia () and WahooArt.com (), where you can discover additional information about his artistic output.