What if steel could run? Here at Vypich in Prague 6, the Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec Sculpture embodies that very thought. This striking artwork graces the southeastern part of the Vypich plain. The Prague 6 district installed it in early February.
The Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec now enhances the Ladronka area. Prague 6 had long considered adding art here. They support public art. This was a great chance. Michal Gabriel lent the steel runner sculpture for a year and a half. The location near the running track seemed ideal for the Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec. Jakub St\u00e1rek, Prague 6 Deputy Mayor, shared this vision.
Michal Gabriel, the artist, spent his childhood in Prague 6. He is happy the sculpture is in Ladronka Park. Gabriel and architect Ber\u00e1nek chose this spot carefully. It considers the views and the edge of the city.
The Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec is unique. Gabriel used 3D printing principles. Plates form the sculpture’s volume. Stacking these plates creates the shape. This mimics 3D printing, where layers build precise forms. The sculpture interacts beautifully with light. It captures ambient light and models the form wonderfully. Sunlight makes the reflections intense. The surfaces gather light even in less than perfect conditions.
The idea for Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec came before the pandemic. Lockdown helped the sculptor. Gabriel imagined an isolated runner on a deserted planet. He then brought it back. The Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec took four years to create.
Gabriel lent the sculpture to Prague 6 for free. It will be here until the end of June next year.
The Ladronka area now has a new focal point. The four-meter-tall Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec is on loan to Prague 6 for a year and a half. Prague 6 wanted a symbol for the leisure area. The sculpture helps them test this idea and see public reactions.
The Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec stands near B\u011blohorsk\u00e1 Street, close to the Vypich intersection. It is visible from afar. St\u00e1rek hopes it becomes a meeting point.
The Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec weighs two and a half tons. It uses steel plates like 3D printing. Layers create the desired shape. The surface interacts with light interestingly. It reflects light even without direct sunlight.
Prague 6 only paid for one-way transport and insurance. Michal Gabriel is known in Prague 6. His bronze horses are in \u0160abach\u016fv Park in Dejvice. He also created the Strom v\u011bd\u011bn\u00ed monument for Otto Wichterle. It stands on Pet\u0159\u00edn Hill. His work Cesta is in Park Hadovka as part of an outdoor gallery. Recently, the city displayed his Asteroid. It used similar technology as the Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec.
So as you stand before the Ocelov\u00fd b\u011b\u017eec, consider the blend of art and technology. Think about the runner’s journey. This steel figure captures the spirit of movement and light, a modern symbol for Ladronka.