In the heart of Impact 24, a renowned conference dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration across various sectors, I embarked on a thrilling journey down the Culture path, happening on May 15th at scene number 8. It felt like stepping into a gateway to the future, where leaders from different fields came together to shape what’s next. Amidst lively discussions and buzzing energy, I explored how culture, institutions, business, and society intertwine.
From Culture to Social Change
One of the panels, titled “From Culture to Social Change: How Public Institutions and Business Can Change Narratives,” took our exploration deeper into the pivotal role of cultural institutions and businesses in reshaping societal narratives. As the discussion unfolded, the panellists: Łucja Koch (POLIN Museum), Marta Cienkowska (MKiDN), Katarzyna Kucharska (Centrum Szyfrów Enigma), Omenaa Mensah (Omenaa Foundation) passionately argued that through strategic partnerships and groundbreaking ideas, these entities hold power to propel significant social change. Their insights didn’t just scratch the surface; they delved into the very essence of transformation, offering both inspiration and tangible steps toward progress. For instance, the philanthropist – Omennaa Mensah, shared her valuable efforts to support young Polish artists at the recently held Malta Biennale.
Jesse Eisenberg and His Personal Connection to Poland
A particularly memorable highlight of the day unfolded when moderator Aleksandra Karasińska engaged in a conversation with Jesse Eisenberg – Academy Award American nominee actor and film director – about his ancestry tracing back to Poland and Ukraine. Eisenberg shared his experiences working with Polish film crews from the Film School in Łódź and his travels across the country. He spoke passionately about his film “A Real Pain,” which he both wrote and directed. This project is particularly personal to him, as it involves visiting the house in a small Polish town where his grandmother once lived.
What is Art’s Relationship to Money?
The question “What is Art’s Relationship to Money?” was explored in the panel moderated by Zuzanna Krzątała. In the discussion, Joanna Mytkowska, (Muzeum Sztuki Nowoczesnej in Warsaw), Boris Marte (Erste Foundation), Karolina Ochab (Nowy Teatr), Justyna Szymala (Galeria Zachęta) highlighted the complex dynamics between artistic expression and financial support. The panellists argued that while money is a crucial enabler for artistic endeavours, it should not dictate the creative process. However, amidst the fervour of collaboration, Karolina Ochab from Teatr Nowy reminded everyone that not all sponsors are interested in supporting theatre productions, underscoring the complexities and challenges of securing funding for the arts.
Young Contemporary Visual Artists to be Seen by 5,000 Visitors
Amidst these engaging discussions, attendees had the opportunity to explore two art exhibitions within the conference venue. The Impact Art Collection featured works by Polish emerging artists such as Małgorzata Szymankiewicz, Karolina Bielawska, Monika Falkus, Alicja Biała, and Emilia Kina. Their works greeted around 5,000 guests at the entrance, offering a glimpse into the Polish art scene.
Adjacent to the Impact Art Collection, the Krupa Art Foundation presented works from its own collection, including pieces by Ewa Juszkiewicz, Pola Dwurnik, and Iza Opiełka, among others.
A particularly touching moment occurred for young visual artist Iza Opiełka when she had the chance to meet Sanna Marin, the former Prime Minister of Finland. Iza, known for her large-scale abstract paintings, weaves strong narratives into her work. Her paintings explore the theme of the body of the future, prompting the audience to consider how everyday objects increasingly become extensions of our bodies.
The inclusion of both emerging and established Polish contemporary art at Impact 24 infused the event with a dynamic quality. I know it sounds cliché, but showcasing these artworks truly plays a vital role in promoting creativity in Poland.
