Making the cut: Poland to pay homage to Chopin

An artist's rendering of the Poland Pavilion [China Daily]

In sleek splendor against the night sky, the Poland Pavilion will stand at 30 m with slanting planes, each lined with artificial bulbs of blue, red, green and gold, which will penetrate through a series of paper-cut slit designs to light up the darkness.

Based on the shape of a traditional Polish paper cut-out pattern, the ancient folk art has been modified to fit modern times with a unique sense of urban style.

"We're linking the past with modernity," said Polish architect Marcin Mostafa. "For the traditional design, we've thought of a modern arrangement based on advanced technology."

With a special outer layer, the structure will harness the sun's natural energy before dusk, allowing the sun's powerful rays to seep through a series of slits on the exterior to light up the interior.

Intended to evoke "ancient artistry, abstract design and futuristic thinking", the architectural design further speaks to Poland's modern transformation. It is meant to signify a country that is still developing, but not at the expense of cutting off traditional ties, said Slawomir Majman, the country's deputy-commissioner for the Shanghai Expo.

Inside the pavilion, visitors will be welcomed by performances combining elements from both Polish and Chinese dance, featuring dancers in bright red and yellow dragon costumes.

Under the banner of "Humans created the city", the structure covering 3,000 sq m will carry a 'green' focus, showcasing Poland's development and use of natural resources over the years. A series of videos and displays will educate visitors on how the country has incorporated energy-saving and environmental protection measures into its urbanization process.

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With the music of Frederic Chopin playing softly in the background, the pavilion will also pay homage to one of Poland's most decorated musicians by commemorating his 200th anniversary.

"Chopin was more than just a composer," said Majman. "He still represents the nature of the nation."

Including a collection of modern interpretations of his classical masterpieces, the songs will celebrate the country's national day (May 22), when the pavilion will be transformed into a concert hall for a gala that will invite visitors to sing and dance in his memory.

A series of other themed concerts will also be held at the pavilion every night. Polish bands will perform a number of traditional and contemporary numbers, including rock and pop variations of Chopin's works.