[Photo provided to China Daily]

Poland sits in between East and West. Because of the unique geographic position, Poland opened its heart to absorbing different cultures in its history while maintaining its own ethnic characteristics. It has been largely under the influence of Western European countries, including Germany, Italy and France, in terms of city planning, architectures and design. On the other hand, its costumes, antique weapons and decorative artworks show Oriental influences, especially of Turkish culture, when the country’s territory expanded eastwards in the 17th century.

After the Cold War ended in 1989, dramatic changes took place in cultural identity and values. Through Polish artists' creations over time, one can see how people rebuilt their lives while societal rules were in flux.