English Section

Polish artist Tomaszewski showcased at European Parliament

05.05.2026 21:30
Paintings by Polish artist Jan Maria Tomaszewski went on display at the European Parliament in Strasbourg last week, with organizers highlighting the unifying role of culture beyond political divisions.
Jan Maria Tomaszewski.
Jan Maria Tomaszewski.PAP/Wiktor Dąbkowski

Adam Bielan, a European lawmaker from Poland's conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party, said at the opening on April 28 that the show featured a selection of Tomaszewski's recent works.

"Culture is something that should unite Europe regardless of political divisions," Bielan said, adding that Tomaszewski's art is marked by strong emotional expression and rich symbolism.

"Art has an extraordinary ability to transcend cultural, linguistic and also political boundaries," Bielan said. "In a place like the European Parliament, where people with different experiences and political views meet, it reminds us that Europe is not only about institutions and decisions, but also a community of culture, history and sensitivity."

Tomaszewski, a painter and graphic artist, is privately a cousin of Polish opposition leader Jarosław Kaczyński, the head of the PiS party.

Speaking at the opening, the artist said he preferred not to interpret his own work, Polish state news agency PAP reported.

"These paintings do not even have titles because a title also suggests something, and I don't want that," he said. "I want the viewer to decide for themselves what they mean."

Asked what reactions he expected from politicians viewing his work, Tomaszewski said: "It doesn’t matter to me."

(gs)

Source: PAP, polsatnews.plonet.pl