In the bustling city of Poznań, the Children’s Art Centre marks a milestone — its 40th anniversary as Poland’s singular public institution dedicated to nurturing young people’s artistic passions. This article delves into the institution’s evolution, its impact on youth art culture, and anticipates its future initiatives.
A Beacon for Youth Art
Founded on July 1, 1984, as the National Centre for Art for Children and Youth, and later renamed in 1999, the Children’s Art Centre in Poznań has stood as a vanguard in the Polish art scene, especially in the realm of children’s and youth arts. The inception of this institution was fueled by the cultural and educational needs identified by artists and scholars who had long considered Poznań a hub for children’s art, thanks to significant events like the “Confrontations” Puppet Theatre Reviews and the Biennale of Art for Children.
Art as a Childhood Right
The Centre has always emphasised the inherent right of children to engage with art — a principle that has guided its diverse array of programs and activities. These initiatives aim to elevate the status of youth art, ensuring it is seen not as a lesser form of creativity but as an essential cultural expression. The Children’s Art Centre’s work challenges the adult-centric and elitist paradigms that often marginalise children’s artistic contributions.
A Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Art
Throughout its four decades, the Centre has launched nearly 200 projects, including recurring events such as the Ale Kino! International Young Audience Film Festival and the Biennale of Art for Children. These platforms not only showcase the interdisciplinary nature of young people’s art but also foster an environment where creative ideas can flourish across various media, from theatre to digital arts.
Engaging Events Through June and July
As the summer unfolds, the Children’s Art Centre in Poznań is set to offer a rich palette of events tailored for various age groups, ensuring that the art continues beyond the traditional stage:
- Outdoor Play Adventures (Zabawy Podwórkowe): Dive into classic and forgotten street games, from rhymes and singing to ball games and chalk art. This interactive outdoor spectacle is crafted by Ola Marzec and Agnieszka Cienciała, featuring lively music by Pan Picik. Perfect for children aged 7 to 10, the event promises a vibrant experience of play and learning in the fresh air. Held in June and July, each session lasts 60 minutes.
- Morpheus’ Dream (Morfeusz Sen): This 50-minute play explores the vibrant imagination of a child trying to sleep amid a stormy night. Directed by Jerzy Moszkowicz and featuring the soulful music of Gabriel Kaczmarek, the play weaves together a dream-like narrative suitable for children aged 5 and up, inviting them to explore the whimsical world of sleep and dreams.
- YogActions (JogAkcje): This family-oriented workshop blends simple yoga poses inspired by animals with engaging narratives and live percussion music, creating a dynamic and physical storytelling experience. Designed for children from 2.5 to 5 years old and their families, these sessions are set against a scenic backdrop of yoga props, offering a playful and bonding family activity.
- Spaces of Laughter (Przestrzenie Śmiechu): Encouraging unbridled joy and laughter, this workshop uses sounds, gestures, and physical movement to ignite emotions and celebrate the sheer pleasure of movement. Led by Karolina Wensierska, this 60-minute session invites participants aged 8 and older to leave their seriousness at the door and step into a space of laughter and spontaneity.
These events are just a few highlights from the rich calendar the Centre has prepared, offering a variety of ways for children and families to engage with the arts actively and creatively.
Forging the Future
Looking forward, the Centre remains committed to its three-fold mission: practice, support, and documentation. It continues to inspire new generations through workshops, seminars, and exhibitions that encourage critical engagement and artistic experimentation. The upcoming 42nd edition of the Ale Kino! Festival and the 25th Biennale of Art for Children in 2025 are highly anticipated, promising innovative artistic endeavours and enriching cultural exchanges.
A Celebratory Moment
To commemorate its 40th anniversary, the Children’s Art Centre is hosting a concert by the renowned band DAGADANA on July 1, 2024, at the Great Hall of the Zamek Culture Centre in Poznań. This event not only celebrates the past achievements but also marks the launch of a commemorative publication featuring insights from key figures who have shaped the institution over the years.
As the director of the only institution in Poland that has consistently placed children’s and youth art at the forefront of its mission, I am proud of our role in shaping a dynamic and inclusive cultural landscape. Our work is not just about organising festivals or daily activities; it’s about curating experiences that stimulate young minds and foster a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Reflects on the Centre’s journey Joanna Żygowska, the current director.
As the Children’s Art Centre in Poznań steps into the next decade, it remains a pivotal force in advocating for the artistic rights of the young, nurturing creative talents, and shaping the cultural narratives of tomorrow. Its enduring commitment ensures that art remains accessible and engaging for all, continuing to inspire and challenge young audiences with every passing year.
