Drawings for Prastánek, the artist’s latest creation, appear as if they were inspired by Middle Earth—a combination of towering gnarled branches and a thatched roof that would make Tolkien proud.
According to the National Gallery, it stands more than 6 meters high and was created by Skála from a 300-year-old oak tree. Coffeehouse impressario Ondřej Kobza will preside over the “Rugged Stand” opening ceremony, taking place from 6pm at Malostranské náměstí.
Says Skála of the project: “Prastánek is to serve as a meeting point, a center of unexpected interactions, a space of refreshments both physical and spiritual. It refers to city kiosks, trams, and stands but is an organically-handicraft object…bringing to the touristic plantation wild nature and flamboyant architecture.”
The unveilng is part of the annual Sculputre Line Festival which sees a number of contemporary sculptures from high-profile Czech and international artists pop up around Prague. The festival commenced on June 1 with works on display through September 30 (Prastánek will be open until September 3).
Other highlights from this year’s festvial include a cyclone-shaped bronze by British artist Tony Cragg, which will be installed at Nám. Republiky from July 14, and a massive fiberglass octopus by Slovak artist Paluš Viktor, installed on the Vltava at Masarykovo nábřeží this week. See the full line-up and map of locations here.