The first weekend of August the new temporary exhibition, part of the ongoing educational and cultural project “Szyfrodziewczyny” (Cipher_Girls), was unveiled to the public. This exhibition celebrates the remarkable achievements of Polish women in the fields of cryptology, mathematics, and computer science, including figures like Krystyna Skarbek, Winston Churchill’s favourite agent, and Jowita Koncewicz, Poland’s first female computer scientist.
About the Enigma Cipher Centre
The Enigma Cipher Centre in Poznań is a unique museum dedicated to the history of cryptology and the groundbreaking work of Polish cryptologists. The centre commemorates the efforts of Polish mathematicians Marian Rejewski, Jerzy Różycki, and Henryk Zygalski, who played a pivotal role in breaking the Enigma code, a crucial development in the Allied victory during World War II. Through interactive exhibits, historical artefacts, and educational programs, the centre aims to educate the public about the significance of cryptology and the digital revolution. It serves as a dynamic space for learning and discovery, connecting the past with present technological advancements.
A Tribute to Female Trailblazers
“Cipher_Girls” is more than just an exhibition; it’s a tribute to the trailblazing women who made significant contributions in their fields. The exhibition’s arrangement takes inspiration from Judy Chicago’s iconic feminist artwork “The Dinner Party.” It aims to engage and inspire young women, especially those aspiring to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Special Events and Interactive Programs
The exhibition isn’t just a static display of historical artefacts. A series of special events will complement the exhibition, encouraging active participation from the public. These events include Wikipedia edit-a-thons, creative art workshops, lectures, and meetings. The collaborative efforts with the audience will become an integral part of the exhibition, enriching the experience and fostering a deeper understanding of the themes discussed.
Meet the Cipher_Girls
Among the many Polish heroines featured are:
• Krystyna Skarbek: Also known as Christine Granville, she was a daring and resourceful spy during World War II, admired by Winston Churchill.
• Jowita Koncewicz: The first Polish female computer scientist, whose contributions helped shape the field of informatics in Poland.
• Zofia Sokolnicka: A master of ciphers during World War I and one of Poland’s first female parliamentarians.
• Hanna Malewska: A prominent writer and head of the Foreign Cipher Bureau during World War II.
• Wanda Modlibowska: A record-breaking glider pilot and cryptologist.
• Halina Ryffert: A mathematician and acoustics professor, who established a one-person cipher unit during the war.
International Context
The exhibition places these Polish women in a broader international context, showcasing contemporaries from around the world:
• Ada Lovelace: The first computer programmer.
• Agnes Meyer Driscoll: A pioneer in American naval cryptology.
• Hedy Lamarr: Inventor of wireless communication.
• Margaret Hamilton: Software engineer for NASA’s Apollo missions.
A Platform for Dialogue and Learning
“Cipher_Girls” is designed to be a dynamic space for knowledge exchange and dialogue. The Enigma Cipher Centre, in collaboration with Adam Mickiewicz University, ensures that the exhibition serves as a modern platform for learning and discussion, particularly aimed at encouraging young women and girls in STEM fields.
Practical Information
The exhibition is free and will run until the end of the year at the Enigma Cipher Centre, located at Św. Marcin 78. Throughout August, it will be open every Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 19:00. This accessibility aims to reach a broad audience, offering a valuable opportunity to explore the often overlooked contributions of women in science and technology.
“Cipher_Girls” is not just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of the unheralded heroines of cryptology and STEM. By highlighting these incredible women’s stories, the exhibition seeks to inspire the next generation of female scientists, mathematicians, and engineers. Don’t miss this chance to explore the fascinating world of ciphers and the remarkable women who decoded them.
