Sand sculptures in Písek 2025

For the nineteenth time, giant sand sculptures have risen in the town of Písek. This year’s event took the form of a sculptors’ symposium, bringing not only monumental artworks but also a powerful message. The theme of the 2025 edition – "freedom" – came to life in six original sand sculptures, which can be admired all summer long on both banks of the Otava River.

Five experienced artists – Lukáš Černý, Josef Faltus, Jaroslav Fuka, Jiří Kašpar and Marian Maršálek – transformed nearly ninety tons of sand into striking visual installations over the course of ten days. Each artist interpreted the idea of freedom in their own way – through historical, symbolic and personal lenses. The result is an exhibition that captivates with its craftsmanship and invites reflection.

The dominant sculpture of this year’s edition is the Sand Statue of Liberty. Unlike its American counterpart, it holds suitcases in both hands, symbolizing freedom of choice, migration and movement – topics that remain ever relevant. Nearby, on the embankment by the Stone Bridge, stands Brotherhood – a sculpture inspired by the founding of the Sokol movement, evoking physical and spiritual freedom, solidarity and courage.

Across the river, along the promenade leading to the Sladovna gallery, visitors can view:

• /Pi:s/ – a monumental sand Gulliver, recalling the liberation of Písek in May 1945 and the demarcation line.
• The Face of Freedom – a collaborative work by all symposium participants.
• Freedom Carved in Stone – a sculpture representing the transition from monarchy to a democratic republic, depicted through disappearing and emerging coats of arms.
• Via Salis – a tribute to freedom of movement across Europe, symbolized by the fall of the Berlin Wall and accompanied by characters from the popular Czech comic Čtyřlístek, linking childhood imagination with the present.

A major innovation this year is the digital dimension of the exhibition. Thanks to a special mobile app, visitors can point their phones at each sculpture to watch animations that unveil the stories and symbolism behind the artworks. This fusion of classical sculpture and modern technology offers a new and immersive experience.

The sculptures were created under the artistic direction of Marian Maršálek and his team from Ice Event. The event is organized by the Town of Písek in cooperation with municipal companies.