“Towards Freedom” by Piotr Horodyński is one of the paintings by the Artist, whose main theme is a new beginning, life choices, and breaking barriers, leading to positive change. Through this artwork, Horodyński delves into the complexities of human existence, exploring the nuances of life decisions and the myriad influences shaping them.
“I have always tried everything that interested me. I have always wanted to know more and be able to do more. I was very fortunate to grow up in the 1970s and 1980s, when having nothing, we had everything… or at least a lot. We were limited by the lack of money and shortages at stores. But we compensated for this with our unrestrained and limitless imagination. I have learned that after a fall there is only one thing you can do—get up and keep going. And if you desire something, you have to strive for it. You can choose a different path, but you must not abandon your goal. We must neither stop dreaming nor allow anyone to convince us that we cannot fulfil those dreams.”
“Towards Freedom” is painting about how our surroundings—people or circumstances—often pull us down, restrict us. Instead of rising, we allow these limitations to paralyze us. “Towards Freedom” delivers a powerful message to live in harmony with oneself, ideals, and values. To never betray your dreams and pursue your goals. Even if it is not easy. Even if others say “No!”. Because only then will we truly be happy.
The painting is full of elements with symbolic significance, with rocks and wings being the key ones. The rocks—building not only the environment, but also the main character—represent limitations, adversities, stereotypes. They are all the obstacles and restrictions. Wings symbolize the desire for freedom, soaring above adversities, above everything and everyone who does not want us to spread our wings, drawing parallels to the myth of Icarus and Daedalus. Icarus gave his life for his dreams, paying the highest price. However, should living in spite of oneself, a barren existence without dreams, be the ultimate good?
“Towards Freedom” narrates a tale of courage in decision-making, a fresh start, of striving to steer one’s life in a new direction. Dynamic and thought-provoking, the painting urges viewers to recognize the necessity of movement in fostering positive change and to resist complacency and conformity. That struggle is a part of life, while stagnation means fear and acquiescence to circumstances contrary to one’s true desires
