Monika’s Garden 

Iwo Zaniewski painted "Monika's Garden" reflecting the cultural shift in Poland post 1956, a period marked by the "Polish Thaw" which allowed for more artistic expression after years of socialist realism.   The painting depicts a garden, perhaps Monika’s personal space, rendered in muted tones that evoke a sense of introspection. The bare trees and weathered walls might symbolize the stark realities of life, yet there's a quiet beauty in the scene, a sense of hope or resilience. Zaniewski's choice of subject matter could be a subtle commentary on the shifting societal values, perhaps a longing for a connection with nature and a sense of personal identity.   The garden, as a space of cultivation, can be seen as a metaphor for nurturing identity and memory. Zaniewski invites us to consider the interplay between personal experience and the broader socio-political landscape, encouraging a reflection on the narratives we construct in the face of historical change.