A new exhibition celebrating Polish heritage, creativity, and community is set to open in Newark.
From Poland: Spirit and Strength will open at the National Civil War Centre on Tuesday, March 24, and will explore Poland’s cultural legacy and long‑standing connections to the district.
Developed in collaboration with Brew Projects, the Open Doors team, and members of Newark and Sherwood’s Polish community, it brings together personal stories, historic objects, craft, innovation, and shared experiences.
A new exhibition celebrating Polish heritage is to open at the National Civil War Centre. Photo: Supplied
Polish is now the area’s second most spoken language after English, and community members of all ages have contributed ideas, stories, and objects, to help ensure the exhibition reflects what Polish culture means to those living, working, and studying in Newark and Sherwood today.
Rowan Cozens, deputy leader and portfolio holder for heritage, culture and the arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “From Poland: Spirit and Strength is a wonderful example of how our cultural venues can work collaboratively with communities to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
“Newark and Sherwood has a deep and enduring connection with Poland, and this exhibition celebrates that history while also recognising the people and families who continue to shape our district today. It is welcoming, thoughtful, and proudly community‑led.”
Examining everything from medieval trade routes and wartime history to modern‑day family life, the exhibition features community‑loaned items and previously unseen objects from the National Civil War Centre’s museum collections.
Beth Lambert, of Brew Projects, said: “This project has presented an opportunity for those with Polish heritage to be heard and represented. There are voices in our communities that are engaging, passionate, and have the most incredible stories to tell, if we’re only patient enough to listen.”
Lauta Mabbutt, also of Brew Projects, added: “I think it was important that we were able to highlight the richness and diversity of Polish culture beyond what people expect. Throughout our research and our collaboration with members of the Polish community, we continually encountered stories and perspectives and facts that genuinely surprised and inspired us. It is a privilege to share some of that sense of discovery and excitement with audiences.”
From Poland: Spirit and Strength will be on display in gallery five until October 3.