Berlin Sculpture Atelier
Mission Statement
To revive the art of figurative sculpture by providing the high quality training and fostering the community of likeminded artists.
— Alexandra Slava
Philosophy
In today’s fast-paced world where efficiency and automation are of central importance, it is heartwarming to know that there are areas of human endeavor in which patience and long attention span are still valued. Fine arts, including the disappearing art form of figurative sculpture, serve as the guardians of timeless ideas in the maelstrom of modern life. For this reason, if no other, it is crucial for us to preserve and nourish the roots of our culture by creating and appreciating art.
Sculpture is one of the ancient plastic arts and a unique form of artistic expression. Embracing the possibilities of the third dimension, sculpture occupies the same physical space as its creator and viewer, asserting a profound impact on the place, society and time it is created. Since the distant past art has been used as a reflection of the predominant philosophies and zeitgeist of its era. Thus far, most artworks were representational, that is derived from the real world observations. The depiction of the human form has been referred to as the pinnacle of the visual arts, including the art of sculpture. This tradition has withstood the test of time - literally and figuratively. The powerful combination of craftsmanship, artistic ingenuity and timeless ideas embedded in the masterworks of traditional sculpture has transcended centuries, influences us today and will continue inspiring the generations to come.
However, once a prominent art form, figurative sculpture has now become a rarity both as a centerpiece of galleries and as a curriculum subject in art schools throughout the world. The fast-changing modern world has drawn the focus away from the slow and thorough acquisition of the craftsmanship skills required for the continued flourishing of this valuable tradition.
By establishing the Berlin Sculpture Atelier we’d like to make our humble contribution into filling this gap and reintroduce the simple, yet sophisticated joy of working with hands and expressing one’s ideas in three dimensions. The Atelier is set out to provide the high level of instruction in the classical-realist methods of sculpture. The adopted teaching approach is rooted in the centuries-old tradition of the academic art training, tailored for the aspiring artists of all ages, professional backgrounds, skill levels and personal goals. The various courses and workshops offered at the Berlin Sculpture Atelier make the task of mastering the art of figurative sculpture enjoyable and highly achievable for everyone interested. While standing on the shoulders of the giants, we focus our efforts on carving out the niche for traditional figurative art in the dynamic contemporary environment.
Location
The Berlin Sculpture Atelier is located in Friedrichshain - one of the beloved eastern districts of Berlin. The neighborhood has long attracted original thinkers, artists and musicians asserting the freedom of creativity and the diverse environment. Formerly part of East Berlin, Friedrichshain has gone through drastic transformations both externally, in its architecture, and intrinsically, in the outlooks of the local community.
Today the are is known for the numerous cozy cafes, bars and night clubs, as well as cultural centers and peaceful green oases.
The home of the Berlin Sculpture Atelier - Knorrpromenade - is one of the few surviving historical residential complexes in Friedrichshain protected by the city’s Heritage Preservation Office. The architectural ensemble includes the prominent sandstone gates located at each entrance to the street, which were partially destroyedduring the World War II. Thanks to the local organizations, over the past decade the gates were renovated and are again embellishing and dutifully guarding the complex.
As the prod resident of the Knorrpromenade 9 since March 2022, The Berlin Sculpture Atelier is delighted to offer its visitors and course participants the opportunity to explore the surrounding area and get a taste of the authentic flair of Friedrichshain.
