The evolution of art, design, and architecture
It’s an incredible honor to see works of Pani Jurek, and Malwina Konopacka, two artists I’m proud to represent at RUIMTE, showcased at the prestigious National Museum in Krakow as part of the “TRANSFORMATIONS ” exhibition. This is the fourth and final edition of the “4 x Modernity” series that began in 2021, exploring how Polish art, design, and architecture have evolved from the late 19th century up to the present day.
The “Transformations” exhibition delves deeply into the evolution of modernity in Poland following 1989—a time marked by dramatic social, cultural, and political shifts. Early on, Postmodernism took center stage, challenging existing doctrines and embracing a bold multiplicity of forms emblematic of newfound freedoms. As the years passed, Polish art and design witnessed a renewed fascination with Modernist principles—functionalism, rationalism, and efficiency—fueling a wave of technological and material innovations that continue to shape the field today. Yet, this embrace of modernity is also coupled with a critical reflection on its possible pitfalls. Digitalization, globalization, and a reexamination of local traditions and environmental considerations have given rise to a truly polyphonic design culture—one in which a building, product, or service does much more than merely fulfill a need; it addresses the social and ecological context that surrounds it.
To see Pani Jurek and Malwina Konopacka participate in this broader conversation about Polish design and architecture is incredibly inspiring. Their works exemplify how local history, identity, and global thinking can converge to create something new and exciting. Here at Ruimte, I’ve always believed that design is more than just aesthetics—it’s a dialogue with our time and with each other. That’s why moments like this are so meaningful for me.
If you’re able to visit Krakow, I highly encourage you to see “Transformations” in person and witness how various artists—our own included—are reimagining modernity in all its forms.
