This project is a series of 20 photographs showing selected Polish kingsprincesduchessesqueens in the contemporary world.
Jacek Kadaj
Polish Monarchs Framed for the Present
This project is not only an artistic experiment, but also a response to the dynamic technological changes taking place in the art world. The result is a series of works that not only reflect the personalities of historical rulers, but also constitute a voice in the debate on the role of art in the era of the digital revolution.
The project brings significant artistic, educational and social value, offering an innovative perspective on the history of Poland. By reinterpreting the figures of kings in a contemporary context, the project encourages reflection on how the past shapes our present realities and how it can be understood and interpreted anew. In the era of advancing digitalization, the project is a response to the growing interest in modern forms of expression and participation in culture.
This is not another attempt to reinterpret the famous line-up of kings by Jan Matejko, but an innovative approach that shows how the rulers of Poland could look and function in the modern world. The creative use of artificial intelligence as an artistic tool allows for the creation of works that are both visually appealing and intellectually stimulating. The individual approach to the subject is based on an in-depth analysis of the historical contexts and personalities of the rulers. Thanks to this, each photograph becomes not only an artistic expression, but also a tool for reflection on how historical figures could find their place in today's world.
example
The two images provide a striking comparison between the timeless portrayal of royal authority and its reimagining in a contemporary context.
painting by Jan Matejko
ruler Mieszko I (-992)
my neurophotography
My modern interpretation of the portrait of King Mieszko I generated with AI tools
The two images present a stark contrast between traditional and modern interpretations of leadership and power. The first, a classic portrayal of Mieszko I by Jan Matejko, uses muted tones and simple symbolism—a sword and cross—to emphasize the solemnity and spiritual responsibility of medieval kingship. In contrast, the contemporary photograph reimagines a king in the context of modern warfare, blending regal symbols like a crown and cape with military gear and a battlefield setting. While the traditional image evokes respect for historical authority, the modern version challenges viewers to consider how these symbols of power translate into today’s complex and often violent world. Both images, though separated by centuries, explore the enduring nature of leadership and the evolving context in which it is understood.