On March 13, the Confucius Institute in Krakow held its twelfth annual “In China, Seeing China” photography exhibition and awards ceremony, attracting over 50 photography enthusiasts. The event featured remarks from Rafał Kwieciński, Polish Director of the Institute, and Chen Zhong, Chinese Director, with Zuzanna Szilke, a Polish-based Chinese language instructor, serving as moderator.
In his opening address, Kwieciński welcomed all participants and attendees, characterizing the exhibition as an occasion for mutual cultural understanding and exchange. He expressed hope that the displayed works would offer viewers compelling visual experiences. Chen Zhong thanked the photographers for their sustained engagement with Institute activities over the years, noting that the exhibition revealed a shared curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for daily life despite the geographic distance between China and Poland.
The competition attracted over 70 photographic submissions evaluated across four categories: Chinese Landscapes, Chinese People, Chinese Inspiration, and Poland Through Chinese Eyes. Following evaluation and online voting, organizers selected award recipients in first, second, and third place within each category, along with merit awards, special Institute recognition, and the People’s Choice Award—a total of 18 winning works. Several award recipients shared the stories behind their photographs with the audience, inspiring many viewers to consider visiting the featured destinations.
The exhibition demonstrated how photography, as a direct visual medium, strengthens connections between the two nations. By capturing and sharing specific moments, participants offered one another intimate glimpses into each country’s landscape, culture, and daily life. The Institute plans to continue this signature photography competition in future years, deepening its contribution to mutual cultural understanding and people-to-people exchange between China and Poland.
