The organization of the Aluminium Plein-Air events in Konin (1976–1989) – an attempt at reconstruction

Abstract

Between 1976 and 1989, seven editions of the sculptural Aluminium Plein-Air were held in Konin. This article attempts to reconstruct how the various editions of this event were organised and asks the following research questions: Who participated in the plein-air events? Who were the organisers, and what role did they play? What was the extent of industrial patronage? Were artistic commissioners and expert committees appointed, and did they evaluate the works? How many works were created, and how many were retained? In order to answer the questions posed, a query was carried out and field research in the form of interviews and observations was conducted, followed by an analysis of the material collected. Among other things, the research made it possible to identify the most important organisers and determine the extent of the patronage provided. The full composition of the artists participating in the 1st, 5th, 6th and 7th plein-air events was established, as well as the names of the persons acting as commissioners during each edition. It was estimated that around 200 sculptures were created during the seven editions of the event, and more than 70 of them were left in Konin for the gallery to be established. Some of the works were decided to be displayed in the city spaces after they had been enlarged. The ambitious plans to enhance the aesthetic qualities of the city were not realised. Only three large-scale aluminium sculptures were erected, the original versions of which were created during the 1st Plein-Air Event.