POLAND: Collecting scarecrows has become lifetime job for Pole.

The small village of Rudzica in southern Poland is home to a very rare and unique scarecrow museum and gallery. The owner, Florian Kochut, has devoted his life to painting and collecting these antiquated guards of the fields. For 40 years Kochut has been fascinated by the area's scarecrows, made from various unwanted 'bits and bobs' from around the village. Among the objects used for their heads are footballs, soldiers helmets, and even umbrellas. Kochut believes that each scarecrow has its own character and soul, so every time he comes across a new one he names it. "The scarecrow is the 'king of the fields' who changes character according to the seasons. In the spring he seems joyful and in the winter he is boring and miserable," said Kochut. When Kochut comes across a new scarecrow he respectfully bows before his new found friend and then settles down to paint his subject. People all over the world buy Kochut's paintings and collectors know all about his most famous scarecrow, 'Bachelor'. Legend has it that if one touches the leg of 'Bachelor' that person will have a healthy sex life for the rest of their days. "People travel from far away to visit the gallery in order to touch the leg of a scarecrow named Bachelor. He is famous for solving and curing sexual relationship problems. This is why his leg is worn out. They touch him, they squeeze him, girls steal fabric, thread and buttons for good luck," Kochut said.

ITN Source | December 28, 2006

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