In times of political and social change, culture often reflects society’s complexity, capturing personal expression, subtle resistance, and everyday experiences that reveal more than the official narrative. Through photography, design and media, creative works offer unique insights into the lived reality of those navigating a world shaped by both ideologies and personal aspirations. This is what is explored in the two exhibitions at Dom Spotkań z Historią. “Przy Okazji” and “Ty i Ja” invite visitors to discover the hidden stories of Polish life during the communist era, shedding light on the moments that shaped the country’s history.
“Przy Okazji”
Romuald Broniarek, a photojournalist from the communist-era PRL, captured everyday life in Poland through his lens. The exhibition “Przy Okazji” at Dom Spotkań z Historią presents over 100 of his images, focusing on moments that often unfolded outside the official events he was assigned to cover.
Broniarek worked for Przyjaźń, a magazine tied to state propaganda. Despite this, his photographs often revealed a world beyond ideological narratives – candid, humorous and full of unexpected beauty. These images paint an authentic picture of Poland during the 1950s, 60s and 70s, showing life as it was, rather than how it was meant to appear.
Although his work remained in the shadows for decades, Broniarek’s archive holds tens of thousands of photographs that reflect his extraordinary eye for detail. A highlight of the exhibition includes a 1960s fashion image featuring the Palace of Culture and Science, a photograph that later drew comparisons to a Vogue cover in 2018. His legacy invites reflection on the power of observation and the stories hidden in everyday life.
“Ty i Ja”
In 1960, when life in Poland was marked by modest stability, a new magazine, Ty i Ja, appeared on newsstands. Bright, stylish, and original, it brought color and inspiration into the homes of its readers.
This exhibition, “Ty i Ja. Lajfstajlowy magazyn z Peerelu” looks at how Ty i Ja combined bold design with practical advice and a taste of the international lifestyle. The magazine introduced modern kitchens, Parisian fashion and even recipes for dishes like croque monsieur to Polish audiences, creating a sense of sophistication and optimism.
Original covers, layouts and articles are displayed alongside works by contemporary artists who reinterpret the magazine’s legacy. The visuals, created by designers like Roman Cieślewicz, remain as striking today as they were decades ago. The exhibition captures how Ty i Ja became a cultural phenomenon in a rapidly changing Poland.
Both exhibitions offer a captivating glimpse into the cultural landscape of communist-era Poland, highlighting the creativity and resilience that thrived despite political constraints. “Przy Okazji” and “Ty i Ja” not only celebrate the artistic achievements of the time but also invite reflection on how everyday moments and design shaped a generation’s identity and worldview. These exhibitions stand as a testament to the power of art to capture the essence of history and the stories that often go unnoticed.
ul. Karowa 20
