Discover Stunning Sand Sculptures in Písek: Your Outdoor Gallery by the Stone Bridge

The city of Písek is once again showcasing its original exhibition of sand sculptures, located in its usual spot along the Otava River close to the historic Stone Bridge. Each sculpture provides a distinctive perspective on freedom, whether it’s seen through a historical, symbolic, or personal lens. This exhibition not only showcases the impressive craftsmanship of the artists but also prompts us to think deeply about what freedom means in our lives. The sculptures are made from fine stucco sand that has been puffed up for carving.

One of the standout pieces is a creative interpretation of the Statues of Liberty — a sand figure holding suitcases in each hand that, instead of bearing a raised torch, symbolizes themes of migration and perhaps leisure.

Nearby, by the Stone Bridge, there’s another sculpture called Brotherhood, inspired by the founding principles of Sokol, revolutionary ideals, and the concept of physical freedom. A collaborative masterpiece by sand sculptors has resulted in a sculpture called The Face of Liberty, which can be found atop the staircase leading to the promenade by the Malt House. On the opposite side of the Otava, you can admire three additional works: Writing, which is part of the Monumental Sand Gulliver, honoring the liberation of Písek in 1945 and the history of the demarcation line. Another sculpture is Freedom carved in stone, capturing the transition from monarchy to an independent republic, while Via Salis pays homage to the freedom of movement, symbolized by the fall of the Berlin Wall, juxtaposed with the figures of the Four Cloverfield as a reminder of generational memory.

Bring statues to life with the app

This year, there’s an exciting digital addition to the exhibition — using a special mobile app, you can “animate” the individual statues. This innovative feature combines the unique art of sand sculpture with the latest technology, enhancing the overall experience of the exhibition. These three-meter tall sculptures have been expertly crafted by skilled artists using fine stucco sand, which they carefully modify before sculpting. Each individual sculpture takes about four days to complete. If the weather is nice, the sculptures will be on display throughout the fall.

Discover Unique Sand Sculptures on the Theme of ‘Freedom’ in Písek

Visit the historic city of Písek and experience a remarkable outdoor exhibition of sand sculptures centered around the theme of freedom for the 2025 edition.

• Location: The gallery is set by the Stone Bridge along the embankment of the Otava River.

• Exhibition Dates: Open until 30 November 2025.

• Digital Experience: A new feature this year is a mobile app that brings each sculpture to life through animation.

• Artistic Details:

  • Sculptures are crafted from puffed fine stucco sand.

  • Each piece takes around four days to complete.

• Highlights of the Exhibition:

  • Via Salis: A tribute to freedom of movement, symbolizing the fall of the Berlin Wall.

  • Statue of Liberty: Depicted as a sand figure holding suitcases, representing migration.

  • Brotherhood: Inspired by the foundation of Sokol and revolutionary ideals of physical freedom.

• Explore More in Písek:

  • Guided tours of the Powszechny Museum

  • A historic power plant

  • The tower of the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary

Písek welcomes you to discover its vibrant culture and unique blend of history and art.