Polish artist Stanisław Wyspiański’s portraits will be exhibited in London from March 27 to July 13, 2025, marking their first showing outside Poland. The exhibition reflects on his impact on Polish culture and his struggle with illness, complemented by insights from curator Alison Smith.
Stanisław Wyspiański, a polymath known for his work as a writer, playwright, and artist, is set to enthral audiences in the UK. His portraits will feature in an exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London, running from March 27 to July 13, 2025. This marks the first time many of these artworks have been displayed outside of Poland, a significant moment for fans of Polish culture.
Wyspiański, who lived from 1869 to 1907, was a central figure of the Young Poland movement. This group sought to forge a unique Polish identity in art, derived from folk traditions amidst a politically fragmented nation. Alison Smith, the exhibition curator, highlights that Wyspiański’s portraits fuse bold lines with ornamental hues, revealing deep psychological insights into his subjects, many of whom were contemporaries in the Young Poland movement.
The exhibition showcases sixteen notable portraits, featuring a collaboration between the National Portrait Gallery, the National Museum in Kraków, and the National Museum in Poznań. Supported by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage and the Polish Cultural Institute in London, the event is part of the UK/Poland Season 2025, which is packed with over a hundred art events across both countries.
In a recent episode of Kitchen Conversations, Alison Smith, now Director of Collections and Research at the Wallace Collection, shares insights on Wyspiański’s pastel works. The tales of his sitters—including family members and the Cracovian intelligentsia—alongside Wyspiański’s battle with illness provide a captivating backdrop to his creative journey. The episode was produced for Contemporary LYNX with backing from the Polish Cultural Institute London.
Mark your calendars for this enlightening exhibition on Stanisław Wyspiański and explore the rich artistry that has significantly influenced Polish culture.
Stanisław Wyspiański’s portraits will be on display in London for the first time, showcasing a key figure of Polish modern art. The exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery highlights the importance of cultural identity during a troubled historical period. With in-depth insights from curator Alison Smith, it promises a unique glimpse into the artist’s life and his significant works.
Original Source: contemporarylynx.co.uk