Henryk Gostyński
curator: Maria Piątek
06.12.2023 – 14.01.2024
The series of self-portraits shown at the exhibition is a testimony to the analysis of one’s self-degrading self and, at the same time, a record of the process of rebirth through creativity.
In “Intimate Diary”, Henryk Gostyński notes his own emotional states, almost physically experiencing disintegration when destroying photographic portraits. Recurrent destructive gestures, constant mutilation of one’s own image bring to mind the actual infliction/recognition/expression of pain. An artistic gesture, which is a strong sensual activity, concerns not so much a photographic self-portrait, but a substitute for oneself, one’s corporeality.
By recording himself, the artist distances himself from the created work, looks at it from the outside and can rebuild himself through art. Destruction leads to rebuilding on the ruins. Art, as the only thing worth keeping, becomes a testimony of humanity. It is a hope for resurrection, but not a hope for the complete completion of the work. Despite the rebirth, the feeling of being a part, indeterminacy, and disintegration accompanies the creator forever. The vivisection performed is a way to rationalize human existence through the mind, but always in acceptance of imperfection and humility before it.
Maria Piątek
