Šimon Szabo is currently immersed in marble. While many sculptors take the route of non-sculptural materials and use literally anything they get their hands on, Šimon is stubbornly committed to marble – an exalted substance, one might almost say the supreme sculptural material. The density of this metamorphosed carbonate rock is among the highest of any mineral substance, so even small sculptures are quite heavy. The weight of marble sculptures contrasts with the gentle softness of their surface effect. The visual and haptic appeal of marble is reflected in its enduring popularity among sculptors, dating back thousands of years – and Šimon Szabo’s work is helping to ensure that it will not be lost from sight. Although his sculptures carry a powerful sexual charge and are based on a definitional framework made up of contrasting positions, they do not feel vulgar or subversive. Their strong impact comes from the precision of their craftsmanship, their thoughtfully balanced composition, their pleasing scale, and also the soothing effect of the marble itself.

Curator: Jaroslav Michna

Gallery of Fine Arts in Ostrava