“Faces of the Soul: Virtues and Sins” – Wojciech Cieśniewski’s Exhibition

Join us on an extraordinary journey into the depths of human nature!

Wojciech Cieśniewski, one of Poland’s most prominent contemporary painters, invites us to reflect on the condition of the human spirit amidst shifting values. The exhibition “Faces of the Soul: Virtues and Sins” seeks to redefine the concepts that have shaped humanity’s moral compass for centuries. The exhibition premieres in March  2025, as part of the prestigious “Art on Złota 44” series organized by the 407 Art Foundation.

About the Exhibition

The exhibition features 12 exceptional paintings depicting the four cardinal virtues and the seven deadly sins, complemented by the titular work “Wrath”, an allegorical portrayal of Girolamo Savonarola. Cieśniewski’s works balance traditional symbolism with contemporary reflections, provoking viewers to introspect and reevaluate their values.

Drawing from the tradition of allegorical art, the artist brings these timeless themes into the modern era, offering new perspectives. For instance, Pride becomes a rebellion born of fear, while Courage is depicted as the tenderness and bravery of a solitary mother. Cieśniewski’s art compels us to ask: Have virtues and sins swapped roles in the modern world?

Wojciech Cieśniewski – About the Artist

Wojciech Cieśniewski is a professor and former lecturer at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw and a protégé of Rajmund Ziemski. His art combines masterful painting techniques with profound philosophical analysis. Each of his works is an emotional and intellectual testament to human struggles, where viewers find echoes of their own experiences.

The Exhibition’s Distinctiveness

The exhibition not only celebrates Wojciech Cieśniewski’s artistry but also sparks a dialogue with viewers about human values and existence in today’s world. Each piece is a dissection of human nature that transcends simple moral lessons. It’s a journey that opens new interpretive possibilities. Experience an unforgettable encounter with Cieśniewski’s art. Pause, look deeper – perhaps this exhibition will help you better understand yourself and the world around you.

Dates and Locations

“Faces of the Soul: Virtues and Sins” will be on display starting March 2025 in select galleries across Poland and abroad, as well as at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw. Exact dates and locations will be announced soon.

Organization and Curatorship

The exhibition is conceptualized and organized by the 407 Art Foundation.

• Lead Curator: Dr. Grażyna Bastek, a distinguished art historian and long-time collaborator of the National Museum in Warsaw.
• Co-Curator: Aron Pudełko, President of the 407 Art Foundation.