From Chopin's Story to a Dog's User Manual: An Illustration Exhibition Reveals Poland

(By Wang Bao'er, Central News Agency, Taipei, July 13) The life of renowned composer Frédéric Chopin, seasonal folk traditions, and even a whimsical 'user manual for dogs'—these are all subjects brought to life by Polish illustrators, now on display at the 'Spotlight – The Carnival Stage of Polish Children's Illustrations' exhibition, opening tomorrow.

Hosted by the Polish Illustrators Association and the Adam Mickiewicz Institute, the exhibition held its opening ceremony today.

Aleksandra Artymowska, co-founder of the Polish Illustrators Association, stated in her speech that illustration is a unique profession and that events like this foster international exchange. She expressed hope that the exhibition would serve as a bridge between Poland and Taiwan, deepening friendship between the two nations.

The exhibition brings together 14 representative contemporary Polish illustrators, showcasing 28 illustrated books and 28 original artworks, covering a wide range of themes. Curator Patryk Hardziej noted that some picture books depict important historical figures from Poland, such as Chopin and famed poet Jan Brzechwa, while others explore Polish history and culture. Many of these books are designed for children, and he emphasized that 'the stories can be understood just by looking at the images.'

Some of the exhibited books are available in Polish, English, or traditional Chinese. 'Find Happiness,' already published in Taiwan, was created by internationally acclaimed Polish artist Marianna Oklejak, known for her striking visual style combining paper-cut art with fairy tales. The exhibition also features her yet-to-be-published-in-Taiwan work, 'Cuda wianku Polski folklor dla mlodszych i starszych,' which introduces Polish folk culture.

Kasia Walentynowicz, a Polish illustrator who contributed to the interactive exhibition at the Poland Pavilion during last year's Osaka-Kansai World Expo, will also have her unpublished-in-Taiwan works 'Something and Nothing' and 'The Circle' displayed.

Hardziej stated that these illustrators use their art to reflect elements of everyday life, hoping their stories and illustrations will inspire audiences. He emphasized that picture books are not only for children—adults can also gain insight—and encouraged visitors to physically engage with the books by flipping through the pages.

'Spotlight – The Carnival Stage of Polish Children's Illustrations' will run from tomorrow at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park's 'More Than a Library' until September 20. (Editor: Kuan Chung-wei) 1150713