About

Nearly 100 events in more than 20 countries. The international cultural programme of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union will sweep across Europe.

piece of art: a person lying on a mettress surrounded by smoke, a giand card with eyes hovering above

Celebrating Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union

Between January and June audiences in more than twenty European Union and accession countries will have the chance to participate in a series of extraordinary events: concerts, exhibitions, performances, film screenings, and discussions. Organised by the Adam Mickiewicz Institute under the motto Culture Sparks Unity, the programme will showcase the most exciting trends in contemporary Polish art, focusing on the new, emerging generation of artists.

Key events will take place in Belgium, but the programme will also be present in EU candidate countries, which will strengthen cultural ties and affirm the values that underpin the common European identity. The international cultural programme of the Polish Presidency places at its centre the young generation of artists, who bring new perspectives and innovative thinking, while bringing together different generations and cultures in a dialogue about the future of Europe.

The interdisciplinary programme will encompass the fields of visual arts, photography, film, music, literature, design, illustration, and even street art.

a leg sticking out of dark mass - part of choreography of performance

Following months of preparation and developing partnerships with the most important cultural centres in Europe

—the programme will be presented in more than 20 countries. While it will feature several established and acclaimed artists, its main aim is to use this opportunity to boost the visibility of young Polish artists on the international arts circuit. The programme will spotlight not only artists born in Poland, but also those who were forced to leave their home for different reasons and are now working in Poland today. This demonstrates the significant role Poland plays on the international cultural scene by providing a safe space for creative expression for those who face persecution or whose countries are presently at war. Constructed in collaboration with artistic communities from all over Europe, the programme is intended to encourage further creative exchange across borders. 

a woman stading in front of sitter

This is a unique opportunity to experience Polish culture

—both in its distinctive artistic polyphony and as an element of international cultural exchange. Polish culture, open to the world, is bound to inspire, bring together, and delight viewers, thus reflecting the spirit of contemporary Europe.

Organised by the Adam Mickiewicz Institute

International cultural programme of Polish Presidency is organised by the Adam Mickiewicz Institute as part of the cultural programme coordinated by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage and aims to promote the ideas of solidarity and international cooperation. It wouldn't be possible without partners from both Poland and abroad and support from Polish Institutes and local institutions. 

The Adam Mickiewicz Institute brings Polish culture to people around the world. As a state institution, we create lasting interest in Polish culture and art through strengthening the presence of Polish artists on the global stage. We initiate innovative projects, support international cooperation and cultural exchange. We promote the work of both established and emerging artists, showcasing the diversity and richness of our culture. We also run the Culture.pl portal, a comprehensive source of knowledge about Polish culture.

National cultural program of the Polish Presidency of the EU Council

The main points of the national cultural program of the Polish Presidency of the EU Council, run by the National Center for Culture (NCK) in Poland, are concerts of young artists, the International Europe Forum with a View of the Future, artistic co-productions, the final concert of the presidency and grant programmes supporting local cultural projects. During these events organizers want to talk about solidarity and European values using the language of culture which fosters community between generations, societies and nations and allows for international and intergenerational cooperation and innovations. Diversity and openness are promoted by supporting young creators and giving them space for creative acts. These values ​​fit into the NCK motto "Culture for the future".