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Řeporyjské ECHO
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Interview by New Zealand native, Savannah Dalzell
1. What inspired you to create Popko Rainbow Stairs?
Since moving to Reporyje, I have always imagined the stairs with color. At first, I was new to the neighborhood and I didn't want to shock everyone with my ideas (laughs) so I put colors inside of my home instead. Then the pandemic hit and I had to focus on my art studio and family for a while. As soon as I could, I took the chance to finally work on this project. I had hoped it would bring people together and make their days brighter.
2. How long did it take you to make?
Let's say it took a lifetime...because I learned throughout my life, by watching my father, how important it is to give to the communities we are part of and to leave the world a little better than how we found it.
Speaking practically though, I had a goal to finish it before Easter of this year because I knew people would be walking around the neighborhood with the "Pomlázka" and it'd be the best time for people to experience it. The process took longer than I had expected, especially when I realized there were about 60 stairs! I chose 12 colors but first, I had to pressure-wash everything to make a clean surface for the paint to stick to. I had to borrow hoses from the neighbors to connect them together so they'd be long enough to wash as many stairs as possible. I was lucky to have my son, Julian, help with that and my husband, Ondra, to cut all the weeds around the stairs so I could eventually apply the paint. Then I had to wait days for the perfect time to paint the stairs because we had several rainy days this Spring. Finally, I painted as quickly as possible and still I could not finish before Easter. I woke up very early on Easter morning, attempting to paint the last few steps before the neighbors came for chocolate eggs, whippings and slivovice (laughs)! I think someone may still have paint on their shoes from that day! (laughs)
3. Why did you choose to make a rainbow?
I am inspired by nature. Rainbows are cheerful and bright. They give a positive vibe and that's the atmosphere I hope to always create. I use color every day in my atelier and so it was a natural extension of what I do. It does make walking up the hill more pleasant and easy now!
4. What has been the feedback so far?
I have been so grateful to watch and listen to many people enjoying the colorful stairs. I see children with their parents counting the stairs or naming the colors. I see teenagers taking selfies and fun action shots on the stairs. I see people walking their dogs or families and individuals simply enjoying the colors. There have been photographers asking to photograph there and even some filming for a television series done there! It seems like people are having fun with it and I am glad it can inspire others. Some have written to me or personally told me about how much they love the stairs. The feedback has been incredible and I really appreciate that.
5. Wow, this could be the start of something special! Any plans to do other street projects?
Well, I'd love to do more for the community if they want it. I've had requests from people suggesting where ELSE I can paint something more. There will always be colors wherever I go...so keep your eyes open and enjoy the trails I will leave! I am thankful for everyone's support. I believe I can work with our "colorful" Mayor (he is very enthusiastic). Perhaps I can surprise you with more beautiful creations! As an artist, to have one's work well-received, is very fulfilling.
6. Where else can we see your work?
More photos of the Rainbow Stairs can be seen on my new Instagram page: @popko_rainbows where anyone can share their photos and experiences.
Your photos be tagged here too: #popkorainbows or #popkorainbowstairs
My normal Instagram page for art and inspiration: @aprilpopko
My webpage also has a lot of color and my artwork can be seen in multiple places, year-round.
I exhibit in Prague as well as internationally. Check out my exhibitions, charity auctions here: www.PopkoProductions.com
Currently, I show in three locations in Massachusetts, USA this summer, in multiple locations in Prague this autumn and in Gaudi's Casa Mila in Barcelona Spain this winter. There is always a lot happening in and around my studio so please feel free to contact me online or visit me at my studio! Find me with luck or contact me directly for an appointment. Email: [email protected]
Thank you and have a beautiful day!
1. What inspired you to create Popko Rainbow Stairs?
Since moving to Reporyje, I have always imagined the stairs with color. At first, I was new to the neighborhood and I didn't want to shock everyone with my ideas (laughs) so I put colors inside of my home instead. Then the pandemic hit and I had to focus on my art studio and family for a while. As soon as I could, I took the chance to finally work on this project. I had hoped it would bring people together and make their days brighter.
2. How long did it take you to make?
Let's say it took a lifetime...because I learned throughout my life, by watching my father, how important it is to give to the communities we are part of and to leave the world a little better than how we found it.
Speaking practically though, I had a goal to finish it before Easter of this year because I knew people would be walking around the neighborhood with the "Pomlázka" and it'd be the best time for people to experience it. The process took longer than I had expected, especially when I realized there were about 60 stairs! I chose 12 colors but first, I had to pressure-wash everything to make a clean surface for the paint to stick to. I had to borrow hoses from the neighbors to connect them together so they'd be long enough to wash as many stairs as possible. I was lucky to have my son, Julian, help with that and my husband, Ondra, to cut all the weeds around the stairs so I could eventually apply the paint. Then I had to wait days for the perfect time to paint the stairs because we had several rainy days this Spring. Finally, I painted as quickly as possible and still I could not finish before Easter. I woke up very early on Easter morning, attempting to paint the last few steps before the neighbors came for chocolate eggs, whippings and slivovice (laughs)! I think someone may still have paint on their shoes from that day! (laughs)
3. Why did you choose to make a rainbow?
I am inspired by nature. Rainbows are cheerful and bright. They give a positive vibe and that's the atmosphere I hope to always create. I use color every day in my atelier and so it was a natural extension of what I do. It does make walking up the hill more pleasant and easy now!
4. What has been the feedback so far?
I have been so grateful to watch and listen to many people enjoying the colorful stairs. I see children with their parents counting the stairs or naming the colors. I see teenagers taking selfies and fun action shots on the stairs. I see people walking their dogs or families and individuals simply enjoying the colors. There have been photographers asking to photograph there and even some filming for a television series done there! It seems like people are having fun with it and I am glad it can inspire others. Some have written to me or personally told me about how much they love the stairs. The feedback has been incredible and I really appreciate that.
5. Wow, this could be the start of something special! Any plans to do other street projects?
Well, I'd love to do more for the community if they want it. I've had requests from people suggesting where ELSE I can paint something more. There will always be colors wherever I go...so keep your eyes open and enjoy the trails I will leave! I am thankful for everyone's support. I believe I can work with our "colorful" Mayor (he is very enthusiastic). Perhaps I can surprise you with more beautiful creations! As an artist, to have one's work well-received, is very fulfilling.
6. Where else can we see your work?
More photos of the Rainbow Stairs can be seen on my new Instagram page: @popko_rainbows where anyone can share their photos and experiences.
Your photos be tagged here too: #popkorainbows or #popkorainbowstairs
My normal Instagram page for art and inspiration: @aprilpopko
My webpage also has a lot of color and my artwork can be seen in multiple places, year-round.
I exhibit in Prague as well as internationally. Check out my exhibitions, charity auctions here: www.PopkoProductions.com
Currently, I show in three locations in Massachusetts, USA this summer, in multiple locations in Prague this autumn and in Gaudi's Casa Mila in Barcelona Spain this winter. There is always a lot happening in and around my studio so please feel free to contact me online or visit me at my studio! Find me with luck or contact me directly for an appointment. Email: [email protected]
Thank you and have a beautiful day!
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