Fireworker Ivan Martinek: I’m doing everything I can to raise firework to art
Brno - The visitors of the first firework show of the 20th year of Ignis Brunensis festival can look forward to seeing an unconventional spectacle! Firework-theatre which shows an honour to all fireworkers will be brought to Brno by Ivan Martinek and his team. Visitors can admire the first show named The sky in flames above Špilberk this Friday from 22:30.
What do you like the most about your job?
I am absolutely fascinated by the uniqueness and also the one of a kindness of every firework. Firework has become a part of my life.
Is your job more about art or technique?
Years ago, Czech best sculptor Olbram Zoubek wrote to me that I raised firework to art. I'm doing everything I can to make it true.
Why did you decide to become a fireworker?
I discovered the world of fireworks after meeting with the director of the Na provázku theatre located in Brno, Petr Scherhaufer. This man inspired and directed me. Then he led me to the career of a fireworker and to firework-theatre itself.
Is there anything that inspires you the most while creating a firework? What is it?
The biggest inspiration is the genius loci of chateau parks and other interesting places. Furthermore - or rather concurrently - it is good music. I like classical music, but also contemporary scenic and movie melodies.
What is the most important thing or moment of preparation of fireworks? Why?
The most important thing is definitely carefulness. Every little imperfection can cause a big damage.
Is there any manual or instruction for the viewers how to "read" a firework, how to watch it?
The most important thing is to like the firework. It is necessary to open your heart and accept all sensations. In case of my fireworks it's also good to read the libretto, but not every fireworker is able to create that.
How was created the firework for the audience of the parade in Brno?
Firstly, we created the main theme. In our case, three years ago, we chose a theme called Fiery souls - inspired by Olbram Zoubek's sculptures. Unfortunately it was misunderstood by the jury.
Are there any differences between other parades and the one in Brno?
Yes, definitely. There is distinctive atmosphere compared to other festivals in the world. The work action during the collective preparation of the competition fireworks was very nice.
To which part of your firework can the viewers look forward to the most?
To the whole show, of course! Our prelude from the Špilberk castle will be a colourful bouquet to honour fireworkers of all times. But the most beautiful will be the last spherical bombshell.
How do you choose festivals that you participate in?
It depends on whether we are interested in the festival. We tend to prefer the ones where also our friends participate.
Do you remember any quaint or unusual assignment for a show that you had created?
I don't remember any.
Where you are going to perform after the Ignis Brunensis festival ends?
We're certainly planning on participating in the end of the international Concentus Moraviae 2017 festival. And there are many events ahead of us.
Medallion of interviewed fireworker:
Name and surname: Ing. Ivan Martinek.
Function within the team: A designer and a scriptwriter.
Work experience: Many years of experience in the Czech Republic and abroad.
Three words that describe me: Ingenious, old, funny.
My job-related dream: To work with decent and truthful people.
Medaillon of the firework‘s team:
The name of the team: Theatrum Pyroboli.
Year the team originated in: 1987.
Shows per year: 30.
The biggest success: Paris, 1992.
Three words that describe how the team works: Persistence, courage, dexterity.
