1. This Year’s Exhibition Is a Hit!
This year’s exhibition titled Lares and Penates: On Building a Sense of Security in Architecture, presented at the Polish Pavilion during the 2025 Biennale of Architecture, is a true gem. No boring technical layouts or mock-ups. Instead, a tale of domestic rituals, architectural superstitions, and making unfamiliar places feel like home.
Designed thoughtfully, the exhibition is also entertaining and, at the same time, surprising. It shows that architecture involves more than just construction and regulations. There is also space for emotions, small gestures, and rituals that build our sense of security day by day. All this is presented with a sparkle of humor that will make even the accidental visitor stay for a while longer.
The concept was created by architect Maciej Siuda, artists Krzysztof Maniak and Katarzyna Przezwańska, and curator Aleksandra Kędziorek. The exhibition sits at the intersection of two worlds: that of security understood as physical protection, and the sense of security in its subjective dimension. The first of those worlds is represented by fire extinguishers, safety catches, or security cameras. The other one—by rituals that have been our long-time traditions: the horseshoe placed above the entrance, eggshells merged into house foundations, or a blessed candle placed in the window during a thunderstorm. The exposition encourages the visitor to explore both common and personal customs. It is an experience that combines universal topics with local sensitivity.
2. The Perfect Location: The Relaxing Biennale Parkland
Giardini is not only the iconic meeting venue for art from all over the world. It is also a green oasis and a space that offers respite during the intense sightseeing program. The Polish Pavilion is located in the calmer section of the park, which makes it a perfect stop on your itinerary.
Here, you can rest in the shade provided by tree canopies and enjoy the exhibition without the crowds. And if you need a moment to relax, the organizers have also provided lawn chairs, which are waiting for you next to the entrance. The whole place has an open, friendly atmosphere that invites conversation, reflection, and the unhurried contemplation of art. It’s a space just as fitting for reflection as it is for meeting up with colleagues from the industry.
3. Polish Exhibitions? Always a Step Ahead
There are reasons why they say Zachęta knows how to put on a Biennale. For years, the Polish representation has offered projects that have resonated internationally, often were ahead of the trends, asked important questions, and broadened the definition of art and architecture. Our curators do not shy away from difficult, less obvious or political topics, but they know how to speak the visual language that draws you in and stays with you longer.
In 2022, Małgorzata Mirga-Tas was the first Roma artist to show her exhibition at the International Art Exhibition and created a moving story of identity and memory. In 2024, the Open Group collective proved that the war could be discussed in a different way, using sound but no drastic visuals. In 2017, Sharon Lockhart created a poetic, cinematic meditation on everyday life and growing up while socially excluded. These projects prove that not only does the Polish Pavilion react to the surrounding world, but it also offers new ways of interpreting it.
4. The Golden Lion Goes to Poland
In 2008, the Polish Pavilion was awarded the Golden Lion, the most prestigious award at the Biennale of Architecture. The exhibition that earned this distinction—Hotel Polonia. The Afterlife of Buildings, prepared by the curators Grzegorz Piątek and Jarosław Trybuś—was about the alternative future for famous buildings once they lose their original function.
A temple as an aquapark? An office building as a cemetery? Architecture gained a new life, often in surprising or perverse ways. Additionally, the Polish Pavilion was turned into a hotel for the duration of the exhibition: you could actually sleep in there. The interactive format was a natural extension of the exposition. Since then, it has been common knowledge that exhibitions at the Polish Pavilion may surprise you, so it is worth paying attention.
5. A Transparent Competition with Opportunities for the Best
Exhibitions at the Polish Pavilion are selected in an open, two-stage competition held by Zachęta. Anyone can take part: curators and curator teams from Poland and abroad. The decision is made by a jury comprised of experts representing various groups. Currently, a competition is underway for preparing the exhibition for next year’s (2026) International Art Exhibition. The winner will be announced in September 2025.
Such an approach guarantees diversity and a high substantive quality of the projects. Moreover, once the Biennale ends, the exhibition is presented at the Zachęta–National Gallery of Art. If you do not make it to Venice, you will be able to see it for free every Thursday in Warsaw.
A Must-See in Venice!
The Polish Pavilion truly stands out among the dozens of pavilions, stunning installations, and big names. It tells stories that will stay with you for longer. Sometimes they are entertaining, sometimes moving, but always ingenious.
If you like exhibitions that feel like going on an adventure together, this pavilion should rank high on your Biennale list. Make a note, save it on your map, and make sure to stop by. It is totally worth it!
Text by Justyna Wydra
