In the 1960s and 70s Magdalena Abakanowicz (1930-2017) wove sisal in intense colours to create towering, hanging pieces that radically expanded the field of sculpture and installation art. Known as Abakans, these 'organic environments' carried many meanings and were often large in size, containing entanglements of ropes or dividing spaces. They were spaces to contemplate, to experience. Lavishly illustrated with immersive photography, this beautiful book explores the unique nature of these monumental works and their impact as environmental sculpture. Considering the relationships between the Abakans with their forest-like atmosphere, and other key works, it reveals the artist's broad interest in natural phenomena and folk-art traditions. Drawing on themes such as shamanism, female energy and power, pregnancy and insights on human nature, the book also highlights Abakanowicz's pioneering contribution to installation art and the role of collaboration in her practice, and contextualises her work within the Polish art world, and wider post-war Europe.
