The National Museum in Warsaw’s current exhibition, dedicated to Józef Chełmoński (1849–1914), invites art lovers to immerse themselves in the rich and evocative world of one of Poland’s most influential 19th-century painters. The exhibition, which runs until January 26, 2025, is a rare and extensive opportunity to witness Chełmoński’s masterful blend of realism and mysticism, showcasing over 100 of his paintings, sketches, and drawings, many never before displayed to the public.

Chełmoński was a painter with an exceptional gift for capturing the essence of rural life in Poland. His work is imbued with a vivid attention to detail, a deep reverence for nature, and an innate ability to convey the emotions of his subjects, from horses galloping through stormy landscapes to the delicate stillness of a winter night. What sets this exhibition apart is not just the depth of Chełmoński’s talent, but his ability to portray a harmonious relationship between humans, animals, and nature—a theme that resonated deeply with the artist’s philosophy and still captivates audiences today.

One of the most striking aspects of Chełmoński’s work is his portrayal of Polish landscapes, which he painted with an unflinching realism that brings the countryside to life. His iconic piece Indian Summer (Babie Lato), painted in 1875, remains a stunning example of his ability to evoke the beauty and simplicity of rural Poland. The warm, golden hues of the late summer light, the gentle movement of figures in the field, and the rustic charm of the country scenes transport viewers to a time when the rhythms of rural life were closely attuned to nature’s cycles.

Yet, Chełmoński’s art is not just about idyllic scenes of Polish farmland—it also ventures into more dramatic and even mystical realms. His winter landscapes, such as Winter Night in Ukraine (Noc na Ukrainie zimą), present the stark beauty of a frozen world under the deep, shadowy skies of night. These paintings, with their ethereal quality, offer a meditative look at nature’s solitude and the almost spiritual connection Chełmoński felt with the land. The contrast between the harshness of winter and the delicate, almost transcendent quality of the night sky is a testament to the artist’s ability to infuse his work with emotion and depth, making his landscapes not just visual experiences, but emotional ones as well.

Chełmoński’s fascination with animals, particularly horses, is another defining feature of his artistic legacy. Throughout his career, he depicted horses in all their raw energy and power, capturing the anatomy, muscle, and movement of these magnificent creatures with unparalleled skill. His Four-in-Hand (Czwórka), which presents a team of horses in full gallop, showcases his technical expertise in rendering motion, and the sheer energy of the scene is palpable. Similarly, his Storks (Bociany) and Partridges (Kuropatwy) exemplify his keen eye for the grace and precision of bird flight, further emphasizing his unique ability to immortalize the fleeting moments of nature.

While Chełmoński’s landscapes and animals are undoubtedly the heart of his work, his depiction of rural life and human interactions also offers a poignant reflection on the society he observed. His Morning in the Forest (Rankiem w puszczy) and Before the Rain (Przed deszczem) reveal an artist deeply attuned to the rhythms and moods of country folk, capturing intimate, almost anecdotal moments that reveal the quiet dignity and simplicity of rural existence. This, coupled with his interest in the emotional undertones of human interactions, adds a subtle layer of narrative to his art.

Visitors to the exhibition are also invited to explore the artist’s working process through sketches and preparatory drawings, providing a unique glimpse into Chełmoński’s creative evolution. His sketches—some of which were so detailed that they were almost finished works in their own right—reveal his passion for observing life closely, capturing fleeting moments and emotions with quick, spontaneous strokes. The exhibition also features an audio guide, narrated by the iconic Krystyna Czubówna and naturalist Adam Wajrak, offering deeper insights into the themes and techniques that defined Chełmoński’s work.

This exhibition is an immersive experience that not only showcases Chełmoński’s technical brilliance but also evokes a connection to the Polish countryside that will resonate with visitors from all walks of life. Whether you are an art aficionado or a newcomer to Chełmoński’s world, this exhibition offers something profound—a glimpse into an artist who, through his evocative landscapes, emotional portraits, and dynamic animal studies, captured the spirit of Poland in the 19th century.

Don’t miss this chance to experience the life and legacy of Józef Chełmoński, whose art continues to inspire and captivate with its timeless beauty. 

*Exhibition closes January 25th

National Museum in Warsaw

Aleje Jerozolimskie 3, mnw.art.pl