A group of five stone ram sculptures in Piotrków Trybunalski's public space, created by sculptor Piotr Wypych. A recognised landmark where locals arrange to meet "by the rams".
Piotrkowska Fauna - barany is a group of five stone sculptures depicting rams, standing in the public space of Piotrków Trybunalski. Works by sculptor Piotr Wypych have become a permanent landmark in the city, known among residents as "by the rams".
Piotr Wypych, a graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts in Kraków, is an artist deeply interested in nature, human and animal anatomy. His academic path allowed him to master sculptural techniques and translate his knowledge into stone figures. The ram sculptures were created on commission from the City of Piotrków Trybunalski over 20 years ago, under the direction of art coordinator Stanisław Piotr Gajda. The artist also teaches nature photography and serves as vice-director of the Landscape Parks Complex in the Łódź region - his commitment to nature conservation is reflected in his choice of subjects for his works.
The collection consists of five stone ram figures connected by metal bands. Each figure demonstrates both realistic observation of animal anatomy and artistic interpretation of their forms. The metal bands are not merely a technical detail, but integral elements of the overall composition. The artist stated that he was fascinated by animal anatomy while working, which is visible in the precision of each muscle and proportion of the rams.
The sculptures became such an important landmark that residents would arrange to meet "by the rams". This intimate relationship between the community and the artwork is a sign of its success - public art lives when it becomes part of people's everyday conversation. The artist expresses satisfaction that his works bring joy to visitors, particularly children playing on the figures.
Like any sculpture in public space, the rams are subject to deterioration and vandalism. Some of the rams' horns have been stolen, possibly for sale as scrap metal. As a result, the sculptures now resemble sheep or horses - a consequence unfortunately common with public artworks. Despite the damage, the figures have retained their aesthetic value and remain a centre of interest for people walking through the city.
Near the ram sculptures are also two peacock sculptures, by the same artist, on A. Próchnika street. The artist managed to create a small collection of animal sculptures in the city, all demonstrating the same knowledge of anatomy and precision of execution. This stylistic consistency makes him a recognisable creator in the artistic landscape of Piotrków.
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