NEW CALEDONIA:
An Archipelago at a Crossroads
Travelling Exhibition
19 March – 30 April 2026: Polish-French Centre in Olsztyn
14 May – 12 June 2026: GAK Art House in Gdańsk
New Caledonia: An Archipelago at a Crossroads is the result of ethnographic research conducted by Polish anthropologist Dr. Karolina Kania in the islands of the South Pacific between 2014 and 2018.
The exhibition tells the story of the eponymous French territory – its Kanak communities, Caldoches, and the multicultural mosaic that shapes everyday life in the archipelago. Visitors will get a behind-the-scenes look at the Yam Festival and a customary wedding, discover local traditions, and explore unexpected Polish connections, including the story of exile Antoni Berezowski.
The photographs and stories of Karolina Kania have been artistically interpreted by ethnologist and designer Patrycja Bulska-Wolas, who translated the ethnographic experience into a visual language and a series of posters. The exhibition brings Caledonian reality closer to audiences – without exoticism, but with empathy and curiosity.
Do you want to learn more about the history, politics, and culture of New Caledonia?
📷 Explore the Exhibition in English
Immerse yourself in a visual story of the islands, their people, traditions, and everyday life – images captured during years of field research.
📖 Read articles about New Caledonia
Learn more about the history, identity, and socio-political transformations of this French territory in the Pacific. Here you’ll find my articles and feature stories.
🎧 Listen to podcasts about New Caledonia
Discover interviews and radio shows where I share stories about the archipelago, its communities, and the challenges it faces today. Press play and let me take you on a journey to the other side of the world.
See the exhibition in person!
The exhibition New Caledonia: An Archipelago at a Crossroads opened in September 2025 at the Asia and Pacific Museum in Warsaw. It is currently being presented in various cities across Poland.
The exhibition is available for collaboration with cultural institutions, museums, and event organizers, with the possibility of accompanying programs such as lectures, talks, and educational activities.