Money To Burn: Polish Wealth Obsession in the 1990s at Zachęta

The exhibition 'Money To Burn' at Zachęta – National Gallery of Art in Warsaw examines the Polish perception of wealth after the fall of communism in 1989. Curated by Katarzyna Kołodziej and Magdalena Komornicka, the show explores the chaotic transition to capitalism, the obsession with material success, and the ironic display of prosperity through stereotypical imagery like gold teeth and Balkan gangsta poses. Featuring 22 Polish artists including Piotr Uklański, Konrad Smoleński, Ewa Axelrad, Monika Kmita, Maria Toboła, and Radek Szlaga, the exhibition uses painting, sculpture, installation, and video to critique the superficial pursuit of wealth. A key work by Szlaga merges money and religion with the letter 'B' for Bogactwo (wealth), Bieda (poverty), and Bóg (God). The curators note that while wealth remains highly desired, the show highlights the disillusionment behind the facade, as economic reality often falls short of fantasy. The exhibition runs until October 23, 2016.