Władysław Hasior’s “Burning Birds”
One of the most valuable and interesting artistic installations in Koszalin, consisting of 24 steel birds, was created between 1977 and 1978 by Władysław Hasior, an avant-garde artist and sculptor from the Podhale region. The installation, called “Birds” for short, commemorates the efforts of Polish soldiers who fought in Pomerania in 1945. Its official name is “For those who fought to keep Pomerania Polish and free”. Originally, the metal sculptures had a rusty grey colour. The 80 m-long installation is placed on an artificial elevation around 6 m above its surroundings and is composed of steel birds sitting on chariots which are dragging gang ploughs. The entire composition is connected with arrows styles as flaming projectiles. During various official celebrations, happenings and events, the birds burn with actual fire (the installation is connected to the municipal gas mains).
Source: Archives of the Town Council in Koszalin