Flowers That Never Wither. Marta Julia Piórko and Krzysztof Pawłowski
10 April 2025 - 22 April 2025
Flowers That Never Wither. Marta Julia Piórko and Krzysztof Pawłowski
The exhibition "Flowers That Never Wither" by painter Marta Julia Piórko and sculptor Krzysztof Pawłowski is a reinterpretation of the classical vanitas motif in a contemporary context. In traditional vanitas still lifes, the transience of life was often symbolized by skulls, burning candles, flowers, and soap bubbles. Unlike memento mori—another genre of painting meant to remind the viewer of their mortality—vanitas works are distinguished by the presence of luxury items and collections of objects alluding to pleasure. It is no surprise, then, that vanitas continues to resonate with contemporary artists.
Marta Julia Piórko blends realism with pop-surrealist narrative in her work, creating a unique and recognizable style. The artist frequently draws on rich animal symbolism. In contrast, Krzysztof Pawłowski explores the theme of vanitas through sculpture, focusing on harmony and purity of form. His sculptures embody a balance between strength and fragility, between the permanence of stone and the delicacy of gesture.
