“Go Home Polish” Exhibition: A Journey of Identity and Resilience
credit: Jak Bjornstrom
Cardiff’s National Museum is currently hosting a thought-provoking exhibition that transcends borders and speaks to the very essence of identity. “Go Home Polish,” curated by Cardiff-based artist Michal Iwanowski, invites visitors to explore themes of belonging, migration, and the search for home.
The Backstory: Graffiti and Inspiration
A Cardiff Encounter
In 2008, Michal Iwanowski stumbled upon graffiti near his Cardiff home that read, “Go Home Polish.” The words struck a chord—a mix of hurt, defiance, and curiosity. Fast forward ten years, and Michal embarks on an extraordinary 1900km journey on foot from Wales to Poland. His motivation? To explore and understand the notion of “home.”
The Journey: A Straight Line Across Europe
Brexit and a Divided Europe
Amidst the backdrop of Brexit and a divided Europe, Michal’s grueling journey took him through Wales, England, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and the Czech Republic. He walked in as straight a line as possible, documenting his experiences and encounters on Instagram. Each step became a testament to resilience, determination, and the search for belonging.
The Exhibition: Lightboxes and Large-Scale Photographs
Instagram Diary Unveiled
Michal’s Instagram diary posts come alive through a series of lightboxes. Visitors can immerse themselves in his 105-day odyssey, witnessing the landscapes, faces, and emotions that shaped his quest. A selection of these images is also presented as a sequence of large-scale photographs—a visual narrative of courage and vulnerability.
The Impact: Home in Ever-Evolving Times
Acquired During the Pandemic
Amgueddfa Cymru acquired “Go Home Polish” in 2020, a year when the concept of “home” became central to everyone’s world. As we grappled with lockdowns and isolation, Michal’s project resonated deeply. Five years after its creation, it continues to provoke conversations about identity, borders, and the human spirit.
A Word of Caution: Exhibition Content
Sensitive Themes Ahead
Animal Death: Depictions of animal death are part of the exhibition.
Homophobia: Prepare for content that explores homophobia.
Offensive Language: Some language used may be offensive.
Explicit Sex: The exhibition does not shy away from explicit sexual themes.
Visit the Exhibition: A Call to Curiosity
Where: National Museum Cardiff, Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NP
When: Ongoing
Cost: Free
Suitability: Adults
“Go Home Polish” Exhibition
As a charity, the museum relies on support to connect communities with history and care for over 5 million objects. Let’s preserve our past and inspire generations through art, heritage, and science.
For more information, visit the National Museum Cardiff website. Let’s explore, reflect, and celebrate the resilience of the human spirit.
