The Overlooked Stories in Europe’s Narrative
What place does Poland hold in Europe’s story, and which perspectives have too often been overlooked? Join Ambassador Ewa Dębska, historian Steen Andersen, and journalist Matilde Kimer for a conversation on memory, identity, and Europe’s future, accompanied by a glass of wine and Polish delicacies.
Europe’s history is not a single, unified story, but a mosaic of national experiences, cultural encounters, and historical fault lines. Some perspectives have come to occupy a central place in the shared European understanding of itself, while others have had less influence on the narrative of what Europe is and has been.
Poland’s history is inseparable from Europe’s. The country has experienced shifting borders, political upheavals, and some of the twentieth century’s most defining catastrophes, yet its perspectives have often remained on the margins of dominant European narratives. Today, however, Poland plays an increasingly important role in discussions about Europe’s security, cohesion, and future. What does this shift mean for our understanding of Europe’s shared history?
Drawing on the current exhibition by Polish artist and activist Małgorzata Mirga-Tas, this Charlottenborg Salon explores how art can open up new perspectives on European history and bring visibility to experiences that have often remained outside dominant narratives.
Kunsthal Charlottenborg invites you to an open conversation with Polish Ambassador Ewa Dębska and historian Steen Andersen, author of the recently published book The Plans to Eliminate Denmark, which examines Poland and the Warsaw Pact. Together, they will discuss how Polish historical and cultural perspectives can enrich our understanding of Europe’s shared history, and what role art, research, and cultural exchange play in rethinking the narratives that shape our present.
The conversation will be moderated by Matilde Kimer, who has spent many years covering developments in Eastern and Central Europe as a journalist and foreign correspondent.
Charlottenborg Salon is Kunsthal Charlottenborg’s conversation series, using art as a starting point for dialogue on issues of contemporary social relevance. Through discussions between an expert panel and the audience gathered around the table, we create a shared space for reflection and new insights.
Practical information
The talk will be in Danish.
The ticket include entrance to the solo exhibition with Małgorzata Mirga-Tas. Upon arrival, guests will be offered a glass of wine and a selection of Polish delicacies, generously sponsored by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Denmark.
