Eryk Lipiński Caricature Museum

The Eryk Lipiński Museum of Caricature, established on September 15, 1978, in Warsaw, is an institution dedicated to documenting, collecting, and exhibiting satirical graphics, paintings, and photographs by both Polish and international artists. The museum is located in the former orangery of the Primate's Palace at 11 Kozia Street. Its founding was initiated by Eryk Lipiński, who spent years advocating for the creation of this institution, basing his efforts on his private collection. The first exhibition in its new venue took place in 1983. The architecture of the building, which underwent renovation thanks to Lipiński and his collaborators, lends the museum a unique atmosphere. Over the years, especially after the move to its new location, the museum's collection has grown significantly—from 2,500 objects in 1983 to over 25,000 in 2022, including works ranging from the 18th century to contemporary pieces. The museum organizes between 5 and 9 exhibitions annually, including monographic and thematic shows, featuring works by renowned artists such as Maja Berezowska, Jerzy Flisak, and Andrzej Mleczko. In 2022, an educational and artistic space called "Lengrenówka" was opened in the historic apartment of Zbigniew Lengren. In its early days, the museum struggled with a lack of permanent exhibition space, but today it is an important landmark on Warsaw's cultural map, promoting both Polish satirical art and artistic education among visitors. The museum's directors have seen significant changes, from Eryk Lipiński, who led the institution for 13 years, to the current director, Paweł Płoski, who took over in 2022. The Museum of Caricature not only showcases artworks but also serves as a platform for discussions on cultural and social contexts, making it a unique destination for art and satire enthusiasts.