Think of Others, Think of Yourself

Think of Others, Think of Yourself is an exhibition of works by over 40 artists who have donated their works for the charity auction. Bidders can take part in the auction of these works on Sunday, 7 December, in the auditorium on the ground floor of the museum. All of the proceeds from the auction, and from the sale of a limited edition of three works prepared especially for the exhibition, will be devoted to the tangible support provided to migrants by the Ocalenie Foundation.

The previous title of the project, Refugees Welcome, alluding to the international movement of hospitality for refugees from 2014, is replaced this year by a new motto: Think of Others, Think of Yourself. These words of Mahmoud Darwish, one of the most important Palestinian poets of the 20th century, offer an invitation to empathy, but also pose a question about our attitude toward the world. They are a call to reverse the perspective—to see ourselves not only as hosts sharing responsibility, participating and forming a community, but as someone who someday may also need support.

In this context, the gesture by artists gains particular significance, as for the 9th time they offer their works for auction to benefit the Ocalenie Foundation. They do not hesitate to speak up for those whose voice has been taken from them. The artists remind us that solidarity is not a privilege but an obligation. The annual exhibition and auction document their commitment to acts of assistance, but also testify to their defense of the fundamental values of equality, dignity, and safety.

This year’s exhibition marks a jubilee, as the Ocalenie Foundation celebrates its first 25 years. Since 2000 it has supported migrants and refugees in building a secure life in Poland, regardless of their country of origin or which borders they have crossed. It is an everyday, silent but invaluable presence alongside people who need support.

All of the proceeds from the auction (which will be held on 7 December 2025) and the sale of limited editions (starting 28 November 2025) will be earmarked for the tangible assistance provided by the foundation in two key projects: Refugees Welcome Polska and the Help Center for Foreigners.

Refugees Welcome Polska connects refugees with people living in Poland who have a room to spare. This provides refugees with a roof over their heads, while opening the way to integration, getting to know each other, and breaking stereotypes. The Help Center for Foreigners offers free psychological and legal support, assistance in contact with government offices and in finding work, so that new arrivals can make a good start in an unfamiliar place.