8 May 2023

Share this story

Tūranga will host an upcoming exhibition profiling stories of Polish Women who have made a mark on the world.

The display features Nobel Prize winners Wisława Szymborska and Olga Tokarczuk, physicist and chemist Maria Skłodowska-Curie, artist Olga Boznańska, Polish Suffragists and more.

Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Wellington Public and Cultural Diplomacy Zofia Halwic says 2023 is a particularly special year to celebrate this exhibition. “2023 marks the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between the Republic of Poland and New Zealand.

“The display is part of the events celebrating this anniversary, alongside the worldwide celebration of Polish Heritage Days in May.”

The exhibition was presented for the first time in New Zealand earlier in the year, marking International Women’s Day. Following the Christchurch display, it will travel to Wellington to commemorate Suffrage Day, starting on 19 September.

Christchurch City Council Head of Libraries and Information Carolyn Robertson says the event will showcase Polish women who have had the heart and courage to change the world for the better.

“We’re excited to have the event officially opened on 14 May by the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland, His Excellency Mr Grzegorz Kowal,” says Ms Robertson.

“The opening will hold a panel discussion on outstanding women living in Aotearoa, including among others Ms Winsome Dormer, Honorary Consul of Poland to the South Island.”

The exhibition will run from 13 May to 11 June and will be open daily at Tūranga Library. Please register to attend the official opening on Sunday 14 May from 1pm to 4pm.