Polish pavilion at the International Milan Samples Fair, 1958 and 1959

Among the most inventive exhibition designers was the Polish architect and artist Wojciech Zamecznik (1923–67). In both 1958 and 1959, Zamecznik designed Poland’s pavilion for the prestigious Milan Samples Fair. His 1958 design showcasing the country’s modest industrial products was characterized by an ascetic and minimalist approach. With freestanding walls that also served as shelves, the design was based on simple geometric shapes, creating a striking artistic composition within the interior space. The 1959 pavilion was more playful. Here, Zamecznik (himself a graphic designer, poster artist, and photographer) used photos in order to intensify the experience of space, balancing the design’s informative and aesthetic functions.