Regine art in Berlin, transport

DIY tractor culture in Poland

The Żak Gallery in Berlin is currently running a delightful exhibition

0alevieuxsurletract.jpgŁukasz Skąpski, “Machines”, 2005-2007, Courtesy Żak Gallery

In the ’60s Poland it was almost impossible to acquire a tractor in Poland. Agricultural machines produced by the country were available mainly for state-owned enterprises. For private farmers these tractors were too expensive and they weren’t even robust or efficient enough for the mountain region. Out of necessity they constructed their own machines using spare parts and bits and pieces from whatever machines they could find. Including decommissioned army vehicles and pre-WWI German machines.

0aamototracte.jpgŁukasz Skąpski, “Machines”, 2005-2007, Courtesy Żak Gallery

Since 2005 Łukasz Skąpski has been traveling all over Poland to document the story of the tractors hand-constructed by farmers. He also made a video where farmers talk fondly about their machines, how it goes faster than it is allowed, how they can drive very steep roads with it and how robust the vehicle is. Considered that somewere built decades ago most of them look like little marvels.

0aaaundernierpou.jpgŁukasz Skąpski, “Machines”, 2005-2007, Courtesy Żak Gallery

Also at the Żak gallery is Skapski’s latest photo series of self-made houseboats.

00atracteruoragne.jpgŁukasz Skąpski, “Machines”, 2005-2007, Courtesy Żak Gallery

On view at the Żak Gallery in Berlin until March 3.

Fotopolis has a few more pics.