This exhibition showcases nearly 150 photographs by thirteen Polish female photographers who worked in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Accompanied by a book of the same title, it delves into their stories and the challenges they faced in a male-dominated field.
The exhibition "The Only Ones. Untold Stories of Polish Female Photographers" presents a significant collection of nearly 150 photographs by thirteen distinct female artists. These women were often the sole women in their professional teams or worked independently during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Curated by Monika Szewczyk-Wittek, the exhibition aims to bring their lesser-known narratives and visual output to the forefront, accompanying a book published in June of the same year.
The featured photographers engaged in various genres, contributing to photo editing and heading photo departments in newspaper offices. Their works graced acclaimed Polish and foreign publications and exhibitions. The exhibition explores the reality of analogue photography from that era, a time when creating an image was a laborious process, contrasting with today's digital immediacy. Visitors can expect to see both published and previously unseen photographs, alongside cameras, publications, and contact sheets. The exhibition covers a wide spectrum of themes, including political and sports events, everyday life scenes, and portraits, offering a comprehensive look at Polish photography from the period.