Maria Bartuszova

Maria Bartuszová (1936–1996) was a Slovak artist who pioneered experimental and abstract plaster casting techniques. This major retrospective will showcase her unique biomorphology-inspired works, many of which have never been exhibited in the UK before. The book will provide an introduction to Bartuszová's work and highlight her legacy in experimental and abstract sculptural works produced in socialist Czechoslovakia.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: Tate Publishing

This captivating book delves into the enigmatic and ethereal realm that dominates the artistic oeuvre of Maria Bartuszová (1936–1996), a renowned Slovak artist. It explores her profound influence on a global and political scale while introducing readers to the captivating forms that define her work.

Bartuszová's journey began in Prague, where she discovered her talent in the ceramic studios at the Academy of Arts, Architecture, and Design. Her dedication and innovation led her to pioneer groundbreaking techniques in experimental and abstract plaster casting. Through her unique methods, such as "gravistimulated" and "pneumatic casting," Bartuszová reshaped the landscape of sculpture, defining it on her own terms.

Her artistic exploration extended to diverse subjects, from delicate rain drops and eggs to intricate parts of the human body. Bartuszová was captivated by biomorphology, exploring how she could harness the organic nature of plaster casting to create works that were simultaneously solid and delicate. With an impressive collection of around 100 artworks, many of which have never been exhibited in the UK before, this major retrospective showcases Bartuszová's abstract sculptures and experimental methods.

The book's exquisite and accessible catalogue serves as a gateway to her work, broadening its audience. It celebrates the delicate and corporeal, the soft and the solid, providing a perfect introduction to the artist. Followed by seminal texts, the book recognizes Bartuszová's legacy as a pioneering experimental and abstract sculptor, primarily working within the context of socialist Czechoslovakia.

Through her artistic journey, Maria Bartuszová left an indelible mark on the world of sculpture, pushing boundaries and inspiring future generations of artists. This book serves as a testament to her talent and the enduring impact of her visionary works.

Weight: 838g
Dimension: 195 x 253 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849766777