(505) 984-9882
Etsy Shop

Who Czesław Kępczyński Is

At Folk Arts of Poland, we celebrate the rich tradition of Polish folk art and showcase the works of talented folk artists. Today, let's get to know who Czesław Kępczyński is, a prominent figure in the world of Polish arts and crafts. Czesław Kępczyński was a highly esteemed Polish folk sculptor known for his exquisite craftsmanship. With a keen eye for detail and a deep-rooted passion for the arts, his contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of Polish folk art.

Early Beginnings

Kępczyński was born on July 7, 1931, to parents who owned a small farm and made a living from tailoring. After graduating from primary school, he farmed and worked in a production cooperative and agricultural club. He discovered his passion for sculpting at an early age thanks to his family’s associations with sculptors.
He started carving various figurines for his own pleasure and sold some of them. In 1960, he presented his works for the first time at a folk-art exhibition. Three years later, in 1963, he took part in a folk-art competition organized by Cepelia and received an award for his sculpture of the Sorrowful Christ. This success led to the decision to take sculpture more seriously. He took part in numerous competitions and exhibitions and participated in folk art fairs, featuring his works. His sculptures also caught the attention of foreign collectors.

Kępczyński’s Artistry

The subject of Kępczyński's sacred sculptures was limited to a few figures: Our Lady of Skępe and Żurawińska, the Sorrowful Christ, the Crucified Christ, and the Pieta. He also created historical figures and discussed topics related to rural life and current ones. In 1973, he made several figures of Copernicus for the celebration of the Copernican Year and a competition organized by the Ethnographic Museum in Toruń.
He carved linden wood using a few ordinary tools: a knife, chisels, and an axe. He painted the sculptures with ordinary oil paints or enamels, sometimes leaving them in raw wood. Sometimes he prepared the material, e.g., by boiling it in oil or carving it in the so-called black oak, extracted from nearby peat bogs.
He was a member of the Association of Folk Artists, and his works are showcased in the Museum of the Masovian Village in Sierpc, the Museum of Polish Folk Art in Otrębusy, and the Museum of the Masovian Nobility in Ciechanów.

Celebration of Polish Folk Art

The artistic legacy of Czesław Kępczyński is deeply intertwined with the rich tapestry of Polish folk art. With his meticulous work, Kępczyński has inspired and motivated countless fellow artists to delve into the world of traditional craftsmanship. His dedication to excellence and his commitment to authenticity have set a benchmark for aspiring folk artists, further propelling the legacy of Polish arts and crafts.