Speaking at the opening last Thursday, Poland’s Culture Minister Hanna Wróblewska said the Biennale was “a space for reflection on what architecture is—and what it should be.”
She praised the Polish pavilion for its clarity, visual appeal and subtle storytelling.
"It’s not structured around a single message, but the narrative is so poetic and compelling that the meaning becomes accessible," she said.
The Polish exhibition, titled Lares and Penates: On Building a Sense of Security in Architecture, explores how architecture shapes feelings of safety and security.
The title references household spirits in Roman mythology—symbols of domestic protection—and serves as a metaphor for how built environments absorb cultural rituals, technical standards, and psychological needs.
Curated by art historian Aleksandra Kędziorek and architect Maciej Siuda, with artistic contributions from visual artist Katarzyna Przezwańska and multimedia artist Krzysztof Maniak, the exhibition features objects drawn from two spheres: the regulatory (fire extinguishers, circuit breakers) and the cultural (horseshoes, housewarming garlands), all framed as carriers of safety.
A key visual element is the humble fire extinguisher—typically hidden in exhibition spaces but here given centre stage. “It’s treated both respectfully and playfully,” said Wróblewska. “It’s part of the installation, but it’s also functional, ready to be used.”
Agnieszka Gloria Kamińska, Poland’s Consul General in Milan, called the exhibition “impressive in both artistic execution and conceptual clarity.”
She added that its themes resonate with Poland’s priorities during its EU Council presidency, particularly security in the broad sense.
The Polish pavilion is overseen by the Warsaw-based Zachęta National Gallery of Art.
Agnieszka Pindera, Zachęta’s director, said this year's Biennale offered “a moment to reflect on everyday human experiences and the political questions they raise.”
The 19th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia opened on May 12 and runs until November 23.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP