Kenji Ide's Sculptures Dialogue with Władysław Broniewski's Preserved Home in Warsaw Exhibition

Tokyo artist Kenji Ide has placed subtle sculptures throughout the historic Warsaw residence of the late Polish poet Władysław Broniewski for the exhibition titled 'Some other times.' Broniewski lived in this two-bedroom state-assigned home with his wife from 1951 until his passing in 1962, which now serves as the Władysław Broniewski Museum of Literature. Ide's delicate works, mainly made from hand-carved lauan wood, are strategically located in various spots, including corners, window sills, and staircases. One piece on the dining table features slender pinewood strips forming three elegant posts with carved shapes that evoke inverted crescent moons. Another, a square block with a carved pathway, is inspired by the artist's experiences during long drives and walks. An L-shaped varnished sculpture named 'Tangential dam' rests on a window ledge, resembling a fragile figure. Ide also deliberately left a book by Ryūnosuke Akutagawa open to a passage titled 'Self' on Broniewski's cushioned chair. This exhibition fosters a dialogue across different cultures and eras, encouraging viewers to reflect on memory, time, and the emotional significance of the space. Ide's work is influenced by Gaston Bachelard's ideas in 'The Poetics of Space' (1957), which views homes as landscapes of intimate existence. The exhibition is scheduled to run from 26 September to 26 October 2024.