Artist Database

Walenty Pytel is a Polish-born contemporary artist renowned as a leading metal sculptor of birds and beasts, now based in the United Kingdom.

Born during World War II in German-occupied Poland, Pytel moved to England at the age of five, where he later studied graphic design at Hereford School of Art. He began his career in a London publishing studio before opening two art studios in Hereford in 1963, initially focusing on paper sculptures for window displays. Two years later, he transitioned to metal sculpting.

Pytel's works are often inspired by nature, and his notable creations include the Jubilee Fountain in New Palace Yard, Westminster, and a sculpture titled Take Off located at Birmingham Airport. In 1979, he created The Fossor, Europe's largest metalwork sculpture at the time, for the JCB headquarters in Rocester, Staffordshire. His unique approach and craftsmanship have established him as a significant figure in contemporary sculpture.