WARSAW, Poland (AP) - The Polish capital inaugurated the Museum of Modern Art on October 25, 2024, designed by American architect Thomas Phifer. This minimalist structure, described as a bright white box, aims to symbolize openness and tolerance as Warsaw moves away from its communist past.
Located near the iconic Palace of Culture and Science, the museum features a monumental staircase and large windows that flood the gallery with natural light. Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski hailed the opening as a 'historic moment for Warsaw,' emphasizing that the project will eventually include a theater and contribute to a new city center.
Phifer's design is part of a broader architectural renaissance in Warsaw, which has seen a shift from the drab communist styles to modern glass structures and innovative museums. The museum, financed by the city at a cost of 700 million zloty ($175 million), will eventually house up to 2,500 exhibits from top international artists.
The museum's opening program features weeks of performances and events, with its full opening scheduled for February. Phifer envisions the surrounding area transforming into a 'forum space' that includes a garden and a theater, further enhancing cultural engagement in the city.
While some critics have likened the museum's design to a concrete bunker, Phifer remains confident that visitors will appreciate the space once they experience it firsthand. Mayor Trzaskowski noted that ambitious architectural projects often evoke mixed reactions, drawing parallels to other iconic structures worldwide.