New Exhibition, ‘A Polish Heart Beats Here’, Now Open at the National Civil War Centre

The exhibition offers an immersive journey into Polish heritage, featuring a rich collection of objects and stories that highlight the resilience, traditions, and daily lives of the Polish people. Visitors can explore a variety of engaging items on loan from the local Polish community, including a ‘standard’, which was hand-sewn in Nottingham by Miroslaw Kliszewicz and belonged to the East Midlands District Wroclaw Scouts in the 1950s, as well as Polish costumes decorated in the Krakow regional style, traditionally worn for dances and celebrations.

Councillor Rowan Cozens, Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture, and the Arts, who attended the opening ceremony, said: “This vibrant new exhibition has been met with a deep sense of pride and connection. From attending the opening event, it’s clear that ‘A Polish Heart Beats Here’ has resonated deeply with the Polish community, creating a space where stories are shared, and traditions are honoured.

“The collaborative effort between Open Doors and members of the Polish community in curating the exhibition has ensured that it is both authentic and personal and offers a fantastic opportunity to share Polish culture with a wider audience. With a variety of items on loan from the local community and informative panels, visitors can dive into the stories and artefacts that paint a vivid picture of Polish heritage.

“This exhibition is a testament to the rich tapestry of Newark’s history, it fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Polish community’s impact on our local heritage.”

The opening event was lively with guests enjoying an array of traditional Polish foods and drinks, from ‘Sernik, (a baked cheesecake), to ‘kabanos’, (a long, thin, dry sausage). The event followed the All Souls Ceremony of Remembrance and Homage at Newark Cemetery, held in observance of All Souls’ Day. This poignant ceremony, deeply woven into the exhibition’s themes of remembrance, everyday life, and cultural traditions, is a time for the Polish community to honour and remember those who have passed away.

The exhibition not only highlights the historical ties between Newark and Poland but also celebrates the vibrant Polish community that continues to thrive in the area. The Open Doors team from the National Civil War Centre worked closely with local Polish residents over four months to co-curate the exhibition. The group shared their ideas, feelings, and lived experiences, resulting in an exhibition that is both personal and communal.

‘A Polish Heart Beats Here’/ 'Tu Bije Polskie Serce' is part of Open Doors, a three-year programme of events organised by Newark and Sherwood District Council and funded by Arts Council England. Its aim is to increase creative opportunities for young people and under-served groups and become a focal point for culture across Newark and Sherwood.

Entry to the National Civil War Centre and the new exhibition is free to all Newark and Sherwood residents.  The National Civil War Centre is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays, from 10am until 4pm.

The National Civil War Centre is located at Appleton Gate, Town Centre, Newark-On-Trent NG24 1JY. For more information about the exhibition and related events, visit: https://nationalcivilwarcentre.com/whatson/exhibitions/