In Paradise III, the medium of the spatial drawing consists of elements that form an unsettling object, giving the title word – contrary to our usual associations – an ominous character. “Ominous” because it heralds some kind of evil: it is, after all, a fence that contains an eloquent threat. In this way, it reveals that it is in fact a product of fear, and that the “paradise” behind the fence is infected with apprehension about the influence of something from the outside. It communicates, involuntarily yet indisputably, that this “paradise” is illusory, merely apparent; for it lacks the most fundamental freedom of all: freedom from fear. Such a fence also expresses the awareness that the price of such a “paradise” existing for some is that others remain outside: in a “non-paradise.” Yet the way the fence is positioned in the exhibition allows viewers to walk around it without difficulty and look at it from both sides; it is therefore deprived of the function of effectively separating the two zones. It thus raises the questions: Where, in fact, is this paradise? Or: Is the marked boundary merely a mental barrier rather than a real one?
The ambiguity of the situation is reinforced by projections on several monitors and walls, all showing the same film: a figure running toward the viewer. It is impossible to determine whether the figure is fleeing or chasing someone. What is more, the arrangement of the monitors and projectors sets out different directions for this run charged with determination. Viewers – participants – are drawn into a state of disorientation, chaos, and psychological confusion. We then search for an answer to the question: What phenomena does this constructed situation refer to?
(Grzegorz Borkowski, excerpt from the curatorial text)
Pradise III – installation| Jerzy Hejnowicz
Pop Culture Gallery @Stary Browar, ul. Półwiejska 42
Opening: May 15, 2026, 6:00 p.m.
Curator: Mateusz Bieczyński
May 15–31, 2026
