Unusual, artistically painted bus shelters can be spotted in many towns and cities in Warmia and Mazury. Their author is Anna Wojszel, an artist from Wipsowo in the municipality of Barczewo. Her work enriches the landscape of places such as Marcinkowo, Polska Wieś, Kiersztanowo, Uzhranki, Kosewo, Szestno, Muntowo or Karwia, creating unique works of street art that combine aesthetics with local identity. The painted bus stops are such an original and characteristic element of the local landscape that they have become a new landmark of the region.
Each of the shelters painted by Anna Wojszel is based on a concept that refers to the cultural and natural surroundings. The artist consults with local residents, who support her work and appreciate the effects, while at the same time being concerned about the durability of the work. Paradoxically, the decorated bus stops become a showpiece of the locality and motivate the community to take care of the common space.
Before the bus stop takes on its colours, a graphic design and visualisation are created, which determines what motifs will appear on the bus shelter. For Anna Wojszel, inspiration comes mainly from the surrounding nature. The bus stops feature motifs of flora and fauna, but sometimes also characteristic monuments, which not only decorate the space, but also educate the local community, emphasising the importance of tradition and cultural and natural heritage.
Painting the stops is a multi-stage process that requires a great deal of commitment. The artist starts by creating a sketch, then applies the colours, and each step requires precision and care. These works of art become both artistic installations and identifying elements of the various localities, helping to promote them.
As well as creating, Anna Wojszel is also engaged in academic reflection on her work. She has already written three academic papers on painted bus stops, including the publication entitled. “Przystanek jak malowany. Warmian nature on Warmian bus shelters”, as well as thesis papers on the aesthetic and ecological dimensions of street art. Her work has also gained recognition outside Poland, being included in the programme of the International Scientific Seminar in Malaysia.
Artistically painted bus shelters in Warmia and Mazury have become an important element of local identity. They not only decorate the neighbourhood, but also involve the residents in caring for public space. Each painted bus stop is a small work of art that changes the face of the local area.
Source: artystyczna-ekologia.eu
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Subject: Painted bus stops in Warmia and Mazury: a showcase for the region
