This exhibition presents paintings by Łukasz Stokłosa, displayed alongside monumental works by Jan Matejko, to explore the theme of historical interpretation in art. Stokłosa's contemporary pieces offer a commentary on historical paintings by transforming photographic images of former power residences into serene, empty museum interiors.
The exhibition 'Łukasz Stokłosa. Lśnienie' (Shining) features works by the contemporary artist Łukasz Stokłosa, presented in dialogue with the monumental historical paintings of Jan Matejko within the Royal Castle in Warsaw. This juxtaposition creates a discourse on how history is interpreted through art, a central theme for the institution. Historically, understanding history was considered crucial for societal reform and civic education, a notion championed in the 19th century by Jan Matejko, whose visions shaped national perceptions of Poland's past glories and downfalls.
Stokłosa's art serves as a contemporary commentary on this tradition. He draws inspiration from photographic snapshots of interiors within former seats of power, including Ca’Rezzonico in Venice, Charlottenburg, Fontainebleau, Versailles, Łazienki Park, and the Royal Castle in Warsaw. These images are then transformed into paintings that exude an atmosphere of silence and emptiness. By portraying spaces that were once vibrant centers of courtly and political life as vacant museum exhibits, Stokłosa prompts reflection on the significance of these historical residences for contemporary identity.