Visit the dark, disturbing, dystopian world of Zdzislaw Beksinski in Krakow

Dark dystopian art of Zdzisław Beksiński 

Zdzislaw Beksinski was a Polish painter, photographer, and sculptor, and is renowned for his surreal and dystopian artworks that captivate and unsettle viewers. Known for his intricate and very haunting visions, Beksinski's art delves deep into the realms of the subconscious, blending reality with the fantastical. The Nowa Huta Cultural Centre in Krakow now hosts a permanent exhibition dedicated to Beksinski's dystopian art, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the depths of his creativity.

Dark dystopian art of Zdzisław Beksiński 

About Zdzislaw Beksinski

Zdzislaw Beksinski was born on February 24, 1929, in Sanok, Poland, and he developed a profound interest in art from an early age. He studied architecture in Krakow, which later influenced his artistic style. Beksinski's works are often characterized by their meticulous detail and a distinctive atmosphere of desolation and mystery. He was deeply philosophical, often reflecting on themes of death, decay, and the passage of time.

Dark dystopian art of Zdzisław Beksiński 

Career

Beksiński's career spanned several decades, during which he explored various mediums including photography, sculpture, and painting. He gained international recognition for his unique style and was celebrated for his ability to evoke profound emotional responses through his art. Despite the often dark and eerie nature of his work, Beksiński maintained that he did not attach specific meanings or interpretations to his pieces, preferring to leave that to the viewer's imagination.

Personal Life and Tragedy

Like some of the themes explored in his art however, Beksiński's personal life was marked by considerable tragedy. In 1998, his wife Zofia passed away, followed by the death of his son, Tomasz, a year later. These losses deeply affected Beksiński, who turned even more intensely to his art during this period.

Dark dystopian art of Zdzisław Beksiński 

Death

On the evening of February 21, 2005, Zdzisław Beksiński was found dead in his Warsaw apartment. He had been brutally murdered, suffering multiple stab wounds. The investigation revealed that the perpetrator was a teenage acquaintance of Beksiński, known to him through a friend of his late son Tomasz. The young man, who was 19 years old at the time, confessed to the crime, stating that Beksiński had refused to lend him money, leading to a violent altercation.

Dark dystopian art of Zdzisław Beksiński in the Nowa Huta Cultural Centre Krakow

The Exhibition

The Beksinski dystopian art exhibition at the Nowa Huta Cultural Centre now showcases a comprehensive collection of his works, spanning various phases of his artistic journey. The art is displayed in a darkened room where the lighting used on the paintings makes them look like they are backlit. Ghoulish post apocalyptic music, and bleak windswept desolation sounds add to the overall creepy surreal atmosphere, meaning the visitor is very much drawn into a world of dystopian horror. It certainly is an unforgettable experience!

Take a virtual tour as a taster here.

Dark dystopian art of Zdzisław Beksiński in the Nowa Huta Cultural Centre Krakow

Visitor Information

Location

As already mentioned, the exhibition is located at the Nowa Huta Cultural Centre, situated in the heart of Krakow's socialist realist Nowa Huta district, an area which itself warrants a day of visiting. The venue is easily accessible by public transportation, such as the number 10 or 22 trams from the Old Town, and also offers ample parking for visitors.

Opening Hours

The Beksinski dystopian art exhibition is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is advisable to check the Nowa Huta Cultural Centre's official website for any updates or changes to the schedule.

Admission Fees

·       Adults: 20 PLN

·       Students and Seniors: 15 PLN

·       Children under 12: Free

Guided Tours

For a more immersive experience, visitors can opt for guided tours provided by the cultural centre. These tours offer in-depth insights into Beksinski's life and work, as well as the opportunity to learn about the context and themes of his art.

Accessibility

The Nowa Huta Cultural Centre is equipped with facilities to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair access is available throughout the exhibition space, and assistance can be provided upon request.

Dark dystopian art of Zdzisław Beksiński in the Nowa Huta Cultural Centre Krakow