The term Manta Ray denotes an exotic marine animal belonging to the category of cartilaginous fish (Chondrichthyes). Rays are distinguished by their typical triangular hydrodynamic shape. To swim, they flap two flexible wing-like fins, which resembles the flight of a bird. Because of its unusual shape and ability to "fly" in water, the ray is an attractive and frequent subject for photographers and visual artists. 

The sculpture Manta Ray is an outstanding study of the creature’s form and movement. Its abstracted shape is mounted and precisely balanced on a tall pedestal, creating an impression of dynamic flight. The rounded base, formed of a bundle of thin iron tubes, penetrates the interior of the ray and emerges at the front in the form of a long, thin spike. The animal's underside features sculpted gills.  

The work was originally installed on the Danube embankment between walk-in fountains in the open atrium of the Riverpark development complex as part of the River Gallery project. It was later moved to grounds near the building of the software company BSP Sizar, spol. s r. o. in the western area of the city, near the intersection of K Železnej Studienke and Kysucká streets. The work is accessible, but escapes the attention of the wider public because of its positioning near the company car park and partial covering by tall conifers. 

The artist's website www.trajter.eu features images from the creative process and installation of the work in its original location on the embankment. 

ZD 

Research status as of 11/2023.