Józef Chełmoński 1849-1914

The “Chełmoński Project” is a unique event on the map of Polish culture, involving the three oldest and largest national museums in Poland: those in Warsaw, Poznań, and Kraków. Their collaboration has resulted in an impressive exhibition of Józef Chełmoński’s works, featuring both well-known pieces and previously undiscovered ones. The collection includes artworks from Poland and abroad, sourced from both public and private collections. The Poznań edition of the exhibition, “Józef Chełmoński (1849–1914),” presents a chronological overview of one of the most significant Polish artists of the second half of the 19th century. This approach allows viewers to follow the dynamic evolution of his work, dominant themes of different periods, changing painting techniques, abandoned motifs, and recurring subjects. The journey through his artistic career is filled with encounters with true masterpieces, such as Indian Summer, Summer Evening – A Memory of Ukraine, Moonlit Night, Plowing, Storks, and Storm. A monographic exhibition of this kind is prepared only once in several decades, making it all the more worthwhile to see.