Józef Polewka (1963) is a Polish contemporary sculptor whose work combines refined craftsmanship with a playful, poetic imagination. Born in Poland and based in the town of Myślenice, Polewka has built a distinctive artistic language through small and medium-sized sculptural works that balance humor, symbolism, and careful material expression.

Working primarily in bronze and mixed media, Polewka is best known for sculptural compositions that depict animals in stylized, almost storybook-like forms. Among his most recognizable motifs is the kiwi bird, which appears throughout a series of sculptures that have become closely associated with his oeuvre. These birds—often rounded, curious, and slightly whimsical in posture—carry an understated charm that invites both amusement and contemplation.

A notable aspect of Polewka's sculptures is their subtle integration of movement and sound. Many works incorporate functional elements such as small bells or pendants, creating pieces that are not purely static objects but interactive sculptures that engage multiple senses. This combination of sculptural form and gentle sound adds a ceremonial or talismanic quality to the work.

Beyond his artistic practice, Polewka is also active as an educator, contributing to the development of younger artists and maintaining strong ties with the regional artistic community in southern Poland. His work reflects a balance between traditional sculptural techniques and a light, imaginative approach that makes his sculptures accessible while retaining artistic depth.

Through his distinctive animal figures and thoughtfully crafted objects, Józef Polewka has established a recognizable place within contemporary Polish sculpture—one where craftsmanship, narrative suggestion, and quiet humor meet.