A disused quarry in Miltitz, a district of Nebelschütz, is being transformed into an international sculpture workshop where artists from Europe, Asia, and Africa will create impressive stone artworks. The annual sculpture workshop, organized by the Steinleicht association, begins on August 19 and runs until August 31, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe the creative process firsthand.
The quarry site, known as Krabatstein, is already lined with numerous sculptures created during previous years' workshops. The Steinleicht association, founded in 2009, has dedicated itself to promoting art, culture, and nature at this distinctive location. According to Hubert F. Lange, the association's chairman, this year's workshop will foster exchange between cultures, generations, and different ways of life through the participation of international artists.
What makes this sculpture workshop particularly special is its accessibility to the public. Visitors can watch the artists at work and directly experience the creative process without paying admission fees. The workshop remains open daily throughout the nearly two-week period, allowing art enthusiasts and curious observers to witness the transformation of raw stone into artistic masterpieces.
Two special events are integrated into the workshop schedule. The first is a mountain festival on Saturday, August 23, starting at 5:00 PM. This event will feature discussion rounds with artists and guests, providing insights into work processes, ideas, and cultural backgrounds. The evening will also include a reading by renowned environmental publicist Ernst Paul Dörfler from one of his books, concluding with a social gathering around a campfire featuring singing and guitar music.
The workshop will culminate in a finissage combined with a family festival on Sunday, August 31, beginning at 10:00 AM. This closing event will feature live music from regional performers and celebrate the completed artworks. "We want to celebrate the created artworks together," explains Lange, emphasizing the community aspect of the event. The encounters between people from different cultures are expected to be particularly engaging, and admission to this final celebration is also free.
The sculpture workshop represents more than just an artistic endeavor; it serves as a cultural bridge bringing together international talents in a unique setting. The Krabatstein quarry has evolved from an industrial site into a creative sanctuary where art, nature, and community converge, making it an increasingly popular destination for both artists and art lovers in the region.
