A Modern Interpretation of the Krakow Nativity Scene

DESIGN: Marcin Kitala

Poland

make me! 2024

Where is the terminus of handicraft?  

Traditionally, the Krakow nativity scene is an object depicting a Christmas scene surrounded by fanciful architecture inspired by Krakow. Buildings and their elements are decomposed, processed and reassembled into a new, multicolored whole.  

In original approach to creating a Krakow nativity scene, discovers new possibilities for interpreting cultural heritage in a contemporary context. The nativity scene, although it uses classic motifs and forms, presents itself in an innovative, contemporary version.  

Thanks to parametric modeling and 3D printing technologies, each element – from ornaments to domes – has been precisely designed and printed.  

The problem that my work addresses is how to maintain the authenticity of local traditions by introducing modern and innovative elements into them. The result is a unique item that constitutes a bridge between tradition and modernity, while maintaining high symbolic and aesthetic values.