Surrealism. Other Myths

Surrealism. Other Myths

Exhibition Dates: May 10 – August 11, 2024

In celebration of the centenary of André Breton’s seminal “Manifesto of Surrealism,” the exhibition “Surrealism. Other Myths” redefines the conventional understanding of Surrealism. Rather than confining it to a specific historical period or geographical region, this exhibition presents Surrealism as a global, inclusive, and diverse phenomenon.

Exhibition Overview

This exhibition offers a comprehensive historical narrative, beginning with interwar period artworks and culminating with pieces from the international Phases movement, which began in the 1950s. Visitors will have the chance to explore the creations of over sixty artists, showcasing the wide array of techniques and mediums that define Surrealism.

Featured Artists and Techniques

The exhibition includes works by notable artists such as Marek Włodarski (Henryk Streng), Aleksander Krzywobłocki, Marek Piasecki, Fortunata Obrąpalska, Jerzy Kujawski, Erna Rosenstein, Władysław Hasior, Zbigniew Makowski, Jerzy Skarżyński, Urszula Broll, and Max Ernst. Their works exemplify quintessential Surrealist techniques, including decalcomania, grattage, and frottage. Additionally, the exhibition features Surrealist objects and an extensive selection of photographs.

Collection and Loans

The exhibition features pieces from the National Museum’s own collection and includes significant loans from other Polish institutions such as the National Museum in Wrocław, Muzeum Sztuki in Łódź, the National Museum in Krakow, the Walery Rzewuski Museum of the History of Photography in Krakow, and the Tatra Museum in Zakopane. International loans come from esteemed institutions like the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris and mumok – Museum moderner Kunst Stiftung Ludwig Wien in Vienna, as well as various private collections.

Practical Information

  • Venue: National Museum
  • Curator: Hanna Doroszuk
  • Sponsors and Partners:
    • Co-financed by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage
    • Museum Patrons: PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna, ORLEN
    • Museum Partners: Totalizator Sportowy, KPMG, PKP Intercity
    • Cooperation: AkzoNobel
    • Media Patrons: Radio357, MINT Magazine, Notes Na 6 Tygodni, Pismo, SZUM

This exhibition is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the diverse and global world of Surrealism, offering new perspectives on one of the most influential art movements of the 20th century.