Palac Sztuki

Palac Sztuki (The Palace of Art) is located in a sumptuous turn of the century edifice a short stroll west of the Main Market Square. It's the home of the Friends of the Fine Arts Society, which was originally launched in 1854. The enterprise has a slightly fusty image these days, and it is some years since they have held a really smashing exhibition. However, many of the smaller exhibitions are poignant and valuable, often shedding light on forgotten aspects of Poland's tragic Second World War. The magnificent building itself was founded in 1901, inspired by the Viennese Secession pavilions of Otto Wagner. The palace has magnificent potential yet a breath of fresh air would do it a world of good.

Well, I take it all back - (almost!) The Poster Exhibition which opened today at the Palac Sztuki restored a bit of my faith in this venue. Bsaically, because the show itself is extremely good. Polish Poster art has a great tradition, and this exhibition will show you why. Go now!

What a crying shame! A stunning building in a prime location, that seems to showcase shoddy second-rate work, whilst the Bunkier Sztuki across the road forges forward with excellent exhibitions of contemporary art. Bring in someone with passion and lets see this fantastic old building shine again. A decent cafe too would be a help. A rotten reminder of the bad old days.