Between 1947 and 1989, life in Poland was marked by economic hardship, political oppression, and restricted freedoms under Soviet-controlled communism. Citizens endured scarcities of basic goods, cramped living conditions, and pervasive censorship, all while yearning for a better future. Leaving Poland was immensely difficult, with potential emigrants facing bureaucratic barriers, surveillance, and significant cultural and linguistic challenges.
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Poles sought economic opportunity, political freedom, family reunification, and professional or educational advancement. However, obtaining passports and exit visas was rare, and those who applied risked government retaliation and further complicated the dream of starting a new life elsewhere.
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The stories of those who lived behind the Iron Curtain and those who managed to leave reflect extraordinary courage and determination. The fall of communism in 1989 and Poland’s transition to democracy brought immense change, but the legacy of this era continues to shape the identity of Poles and their diasporas worldwide.
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This exhibition opened at the University of Minnesota Campus Club on March 13, 2025. The next step is the Minneapolis St. Paul Airport SEE 18 Gallery on Concourse A May- August 2025.
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Dr. Katarzyna Litak is the project manager, exhibitions curator, and graphic designer. She conducted oral history interviews for the project.
Seasoned photographer David Sherman was contracted for the visual part of this phase of the project. https://www.davidshermanphoto.com/
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This phase of Kalejdoskop Polski MN project has received grant support from the Minnesota State Arts Board and private donors. Throughout the project entire duration, we have also been supported by the Minnesota Historical Society and the Metro Regional Arts Council. Additionally, we have partnered with Landmark Center, Ramsey County Historical Society, East Side Freedom Library, Roseville Public Library, the University of St. Thomas, Kowalski’s Market, and the Minneapolis St. Paul Airport Foundation.
