Cricoteka

The centre for the new Cricoteka Museum is one of the most innovative new structures to be built in Krakow in recent years. Overlooking the River Vistula, this fascinating building which took eight years to complete, contains the work of dramatist, writer, painter, stage designer and all-round artist, Tadeusz Kantor.

Kantor is considered to be one of the greatest artists of the twentieth century and it is fitting that such a unique museum has been built to honour his memory and propagate his extensive catalogue of work to new and existing audiences. The large metallic brown corten steel structure rises above the reconstructed Podgorze power station to maintain the industrial element from former times while adding an injection of modernity from the twenty-first century.

The permanent exhibition displays the work of Kantor. This collection consists of hundreds of objects from Cicot 2 Theatre, theoretical papers, video records, reviews, journals, books, photography and other documents that give us an insight into the mind of Kantor. Modern technology makes this exhibition interactive and more engaging for people of all ages. There are also temporary collections featuring the works of other artists.

Cricoteka is not only used as a museum but also as a modern exhibition centre, theatre, conference space, bookshop, archive and library. It is important to note that events take place there and it is an active artistic space where artists can perform or display their work. It is a living space and not only one that pays homage to the great artist Tadeusz Kantor.