Client:
Centrum Historii Zajezdnia. Ośrodek "Pamięć i Przyszłość"
Year:
2023
Designers:
Marcin Krater, Natalia Jakóbiec, Katarzyna Pełka-Bura, Magdalena Giertuga, Marta Żmija-Wojciuch, Oliwia Maroń, Karolina Podyma
Cooperation:
A4 Media
Photos:
Wzorro Design, A4 Media, Centrum Historii Zajezdnia
"We are Lower Silesians. The region connect us" is a traveling pop-up exhibition and interactive space where actors can engage with visitors. It has been showcased in Oleśnica, Środa Śląska, Jelcz-Laskowice, and Trzebnica.
The main inspiration for the design of the exhibition is the distinctive and original aesthetic of graphic design from the People's Republic of Poland (PRL) era, such as packaging, fonts, newspaper layouts, and advertising signs. The concept also references the typical architecture of that period and incorporates elements taken from urban spaces. The use of bold graphic elements and the citation of childhood-associated motifs in the scenography aim to evoke a positive sentiment and awaken memories among visitors. The exhibition, shown in a conceptual form, is intended to inspire viewers rather than literally recreate the reality of the past era. Thanks to a cohesive and eye-catching color palette, the exhibition will stand out in urban spaces. The vibrant colors also demonstrate to visitors that the PRL era could be colorful, despite the commonly associated drabness.
The exhibition's scenographic elements reference pop-up children's books and theatrical facade scenography. The exhibition features spaces resembling a shop, school, tourist information center, and kiosk. Complementing these was a bus stop and an authentic Jelcz 043 bus, known as the "Cucumber." Each section of the exhibition presents a conceptual building facade composed of several layers. Some sections can be viewed from the outside, while others can be explored from the inside. The expansion of selected parts creates spaces where actors interact with visitors, bringing the exhibition to life. The exhibition spaces also feature authentic PRL-era furnishings. The scenography includes archival photographs, texts, and infographics that provide the exhibition's substantive content.
The scenography is constructed from lightweight, occasionally openwork forms made of waterproof plywood with printed graphics. The individual building models are made from cut sheets joined together in a simple manner. This approach allows for relatively quick and repeated assembly, disassembly, and easy storage of the exhibition.