Discovering Disappearing Landscapes: Miron Białoszewski's Spatial Narrative Exhibition in Warsaw

This exhibition explores the right-bank area of Warsaw during its dynamic urban development and modernization, as seen through the eyes of poet Miron Białoszewski. Using his 1975 novel 'Chamowo' as a starting point, the exhibition invites a spatial reading of his literary works, complemented by audio recordings of the poet, photographs by local residents, and press materials.

The exhibition 'Znikające krajobrazy. „Opowieść przestrzenna” Mirona Białoszewskiego' delves into the transformation of Warsaw's right-bank districts, particularly Praga-Południe, during the 1970s and 1980s, as perceived by the poet Miron Białoszewski. The core of the exhibition is inspired by Białoszewski's 1975 novel 'Chamowo,' written after he moved to Lizbońska Street. Visitors are invited to engage in a spatial interpretation of fragments from 'Chamowo' and other literary works by Białoszewski. The exhibition incorporates a rich multimedia experience, featuring recordings of the poet's voice, photographs taken by residents of the areas described in his book, and relevant press materials. These elements collectively construct a narrative of right-bank Warsaw, focusing on the processes by which the encroaching urban environment and modernity absorbed less-developed peripheries like Grochów, Gocław, and Saska Kępa. By recognizing the territories surrounding Kępa Gocławska, where Białoszewski resided, visitors are guided into the literary work itself, offering a unique perspective on urban development that resonates with the experiences of many growing cities.