Magdalena Abakanowicz: Crossing Boundaries

HAM’s grand arched halls are filled with the artist’s iconic textile sculptures, Abakans, as well as impressive burlap sculptures.

Magdalena Abakanowicz emerged as a pioneer in creating organic, fibre-based sculptures and installations in the 1960s and 1970s. Her large woven sculptures became known as Abakans after her surname. The artist removed them from the wall and placed her ever more three-dimensional works in the open space, creating comprehensive installations. By doing so, she challenged the boundaries of textile art and sculpture. She wanted to be seen, above all, as a contemporary sculptor.