Mariusz Sołtysik
Land scape
CONTEMPORARY ART REVIEW newspapers , films , and documentaries . We often do not have time to find out about the relationships present in a particular place . In case of Invaders balloons , the organiser of the event prepared information about historical knowledge and the context of the place . A lonely , closed down ( again an abandoned place ) pressure tower surrounded with blocks of flats and highrise buildings , which are rather familiar to me , was a challenge for a message about something that can poison our minds . Something that can be wrapped as an attractive product . The role of the artist is certainly changing in the same way life conditions , and social relations are changing . Our knowledge about the world and the objects we use are more complicated then 100 or 50 years ago . This can result with bigger misunderstandings concerning the language of science , and the language of art exposed by a part of society , which has got an awareness of unequal access to common goods , education , etc . We shall not achieve ‘ new sensitivity ’ thanks to ‘ new media ’, or any other technological devices . This work has to be done by us in order to change a perspective , mentality , traditions which persistently lead us to ignorance , wars and conflicts . No devices can give us freedom like that . Although they allow us ( the artists ) for a variety , interactive possibilities of expressing a message , in my opinion , the most important message does not lie in the tools . The content of artworks , and the artists activity , their attitudes , not only official but also they way they are everyday – carry the meaning .
Besides producing your artworks also hold the position of lecturer at the ASP Faculty of Intermedia , in Kraków : how does this aspect of your work influence your practice ? In particular , have you ever been inspired from your students ' ideas ?
The faculty of Intermedia in Cracow is a special place . I feel close to it because of my projects and experiences . But also thanks to the team which creates that place . My official status there is scientifically-didactic , that implicates combining my own artistic work with teaching work . The relations amongst lectures and students are based on partnership . In my teaching work , I try not to make a mistake of my professors , that is to continue the relationship of a master and a student . I am interested in creating common language and working out common insights . That is incredibly stimulating . The energy and devotion of some young artists sometimes bring to my mind my own dilemmas , actions , or similar paths . If something inspires me , then it is the energy to act , to see common questions , which can be answered in an individual way . My work follows its own path and I realise my own ideas . I would like to mention here the work I do as the curator of the Faculty Gallery . I created a series entitled YOU / I which focuses on a co-operation between a lecturer and a student in a given space . This is a platform for joined creation