Visionary Art Environment by Józef Chełmowski

Józef Chełmowski's Magic Garden is an open-air museum located in the Kashubian region, Brusy, Poland. This unique site showcases the life work of Polish folk artist and philosopher Józef Chełmowski, featuring a diverse collection of sculptures, paintings, and inventions created throughout his lifetime.

The Artist's Background

Chełmowski worked as a railroad watchman and farmer, beginning his artistic journey by carving bark during night shifts. His granddaughter, Magdalena, now conducts tours of the museum, offering insights into her grandfather's life and work.

Artistic Creations and Inventions

The museum displays a wide array of Chełmowski's creations. His artworks include sculptures carved from wood and bark, paintings on various mediums such as glass, canvas, and plywood, and illustrated books reminiscent of medieval choir books. Chełmowski also developed several inventions, including a prototype of a flying machine inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's designs, a tall bicycle designed for improved view and practicality, and an attempted perpetual motion machine. Additionally, he crafted custom-built musical instruments based on Kashubian traditions.

Philosophical Elements and Themes

Chełmowski's work often incorporated philosophical elements. A stone "weather predictor" represents his belief in living in the present, while other sculptures document significant world events. His art also explores religious themes, particularly depictions of angels from various traditions. Beyond his artistic pursuits, Chełmowski maintained interests in beekeeping, barometers, and world religions.

Artistic Approach and Influences

The artist's approach combined folk art, philosophy, and practical innovation, exploring themes of harmony with nature, spirituality, and human potential. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe significantly influenced Chełmowski's work and philosophy.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to the museum can explore outdoor sculptures, view indoor paintings and artifacts, and learn about Chełmowski's life and philosophies through guided tours. The Magic Garden offers a comprehensive look at the multifaceted work of this unique Polish artist, providing insight into his creative process and worldview.

Links

• To save Chełmowski - finding
• Let's save the Magical Chełmowski Garden - finding
• Outsider Environments Europe: Józef Chelmowski, Muzeum na świeżym powietrzu / Open air museum
• Józef Chełmowski und seine Welt voller Engel – KUNSTDUNST
• Rescue for the Józef Chełmowski Open-Air Museum
• JÓZEF CHEŁMOWSKI (1934-2013) - West Kashubian Museum in Bytów
• Józef Chełmowski - Kashubian folk artist, designer, philosopher
• "The Magic Garden of Józef Chełmowski in Sopot [EXHIBITION] - plus.dziennikbaltycki.pl
• Józef Chełmowski - an artist without special treatment - Kaszuby Magazine
• A new room dedicated to Józef Chełmowski in the Western Kashubian Museum in Bytów