Documentation of the implementation stage of the work "Reconstruction"

Reconstruction, Tadashi Kawamata's work for the Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art consisted of adapting and revitalizing a series of 19th century cellars located in the square in front of Ujazdowski Castle. The adaptation process began with work aimed at protecting the existing architectural structure: walls were covered with protective layers, a glass roof erected over the cellar vaults, wooden stairs and floors constructed inside. The entirety of the roof structure is situated at ground level and is visible. The Japanese artist`s intervention is the first step towards the complete renovation and adaptation of the below-ground structure. In uncovering these previously hidden cellars of an annex to Ujazdowski Castle (cellars
which once served as "the castle`s intestines" a sedimentation tank
that was part of the sewage system of Ujazdowski Hospital during the
19th century), Kawamata
has sought to emphasize the effect the project can have on people and
created a space that will host a range of artistic activities.