December 2024: Pohl Kostian
(no title), from Acheiropoietos
Project Information
Acheiropoietos refers to an image “created by a divine hand”. This term is used to describe sacred depictions believed to have emerged under mysterious or inexplicable circumstances. Such images are thought to be the handwork of angels, saints, or other transcendent forces. They are thus regarded as authentic portrayals of the individuals they represent, often imbued with extraordinary properties.
These works are said to possess miraculous abilities: healing the sick, answering prayers, or manifesting in distant places.
Black Madonna of Częstochowa is probably the most renowned Polish example of an Acheiropoietos. Each day, pilgrims flock to this revered painting, carrying within their hearts petitions for healing, prosperity, or simply the hope for a better life.
With similar longings, hundreds of displaced individuals traverse the forests along the Polish-Belarusian border daily. Yet, what they endure on also deserves an “inhuman” term.
Within my project, I focus mostly on the “robes” used to adorn the Black Madonna of Częstochowa. Richly ornamented overlays, crafted from precious metals and gemstones, add an additional layer of opulence and significance to an icon already surrounded by immense devotion.
What strikes me is how much attention we dedicate to objects, while so little is afforded to our fellow human beings.
The series of robes I have created utilizes materials used by refugees attempting to survive along the Polish-Belarusian border. Items such as NRC thermal blankets, bandages, and plastic sheeting—materials that offer a semblance of thermal comfort or serve as makeshift shelters against rain and snow is what I worked with. The largest of the five installations, mirroring dimensions of the original icon, will be crafted from materials found during humanitarian interventions conducted by aid groups operating in the border region.
Spaces within these robes remain deliberately vacant, posing an open question: Where is God in the borderland forest?
Artist biography
Born in 1990 in Bytom, Upper Silesia, Pohl Kostian is a Polish photographer, artist, and entrepreneur. Initially trained as a pianist, his fascination with visual art has been a lifelong passion alongside his musical pursuits. In 2021, he began delving into the medium of photography. He’s an alumni of esteemed Sputnik Mentoring Programme.
Professionally, Kostian focuses on fashion photography, collaborating with major brands, magazines, and agencies. Yet, his artistic vision is deeply rooted in a profound sensitivity toward humanity and an enduring sense of discontent with global injustices.
Beyond his commercial work, his personal projects engage with themes of social inequality, migration, and environmental sustainability. Through both his art and public discourse, he seeks to raise awareness and inspire empathy.
Kostian is in constant contemplation about the future of societies and environment. He is also the founder of No Planet B and Släppa, ventures focused on reducing carbon footprints and eliminating single-use plastics.
What is OKNO gallery?
OKNO (“window” in Polish) is a tiny one-window gallery overlooking the busy Shore area in Edinburgh, UK. It faces the bridge over the Water of Leith, and attracts attention of folks moving through this busy area.
Each month, Wojtek Kutyla, a visual artist working from the studio where the OKNO gallery is located, gives the space to one artist from outside Scotland who presents a single image and an invitation to see more online. The gallery exists to bring international talent to Scotland — and to build a connection between its hermetic photographic circles and the world. Just as the opening of a window brings a breath of fresh air, OKNO shows work that could be otherwise unrecognised in Scotland.
All work is presented free of charge (Wojtek handles printing at zero cost to the artist) and is available for purchase at the end of the display period. All money from the purchase goes to the author. If the work is not purchased or collected by the author, it is destroyed.
If you want to exhibit your work in the OKNO gallery, send an email to Wojtek.
To follow all upcoming exhibitions in the OKNO gallery, follow Wojtek Kutyla on Instagram and monitor the hashtag of #OKNOEdinburgh.