Posted on 4th Nov
The National Civil War Centre in Newark hosted an opening event for its new exhibition, A Polish Heart Beat’s Here / Tu Bije Polskie Serce, a tribute to Polish culture and history.
Co-created by Open Doors and the local Polish community, it will be open to the public until Saturday, 26th April.
The exhibition offers a journey into Polish heritage, featuring a collection of objects and stories that highlight the resilience, traditions, and daily lives of Polish people.
Visitors can explore a variety of engaging items on loan from the Polish community, including a standard that was hand-sewn in Nottingham by Miroslaw Kliszewicz and belonged to the East Midlands District Wroclaw Scouts in the 1950s, as well as Polish costumes decorated in the Krakow regional style, traditionally worn for dances and celebrations.
Coun Rowan Cozens, portfolio holder for Heritage, Culture, and the Arts, said: “This vibrant new exhibition has been met with a deep sense of pride and connection. From attending the opening event, it’s clear that A Polish Heart Beats Here has resonated deeply with the Polish community, creating a space where stories are shared, and traditions are honoured.
“The collaborative effort between Open Doors and members of the Polish community in curating the exhibition has ensured that it is both authentic and personal, and offers a fantastic opportunity to share Polish culture with a wider audience.
“With a variety of items on loan from the local community and informative panels, visitors can dive into the stories and artefacts that paint a vivid picture of Polish heritage.”
The opening event followed the All Souls Ceremony of Remembrance and Homage at Newark Cemetery, held in observance of All Souls’ Day. This poignant ceremony, deeply woven into the exhibition’s themes of remembrance, everyday life, and cultural traditions, is a time for the Polish community to honour and remember those who have passed away.
A Polish Heart Beats Here/ Tu Bije Polskie Serce is part of Open Doors, a three-year programme of events organised by Newark and Sherwood District Council and funded by Arts Council England.
