If you are planning a visit to Toruń this summer or looking for a quieter cultural experience in the city, there is still plenty of time to discover Między plamą a linią (Between the Spot and the Line). This free exhibition celebrates the work of Fine Arts students from Nicolaus Copernicus University.
On display at the historic Ratusz Staromiejski (Old Town Hall) until 30 September 2026, the exhibition brings together painting and drawing studies created by fifth-year students specialising in the conservation and restoration of works of art. Rather than showcasing finished pieces alone, the exhibition offers visitors a chance to see the creative process behind learning one of the most demanding artistic professions.
Looking Beyond the Finished Painting
Every restored masterpiece begins with careful observation.
The works on display were created as preparatory studies before students produced painted copies of selected artworks from the Museum District in Toruń's permanent collection. Working directly from original paintings allows students to understand not only composition and colour, but also the techniques and decisions made by the artists who created them.
The result is a collection of sketches that combines technical study with personal interpretation. Some focus on structure and line, while others explore light, colour and texture, offering a fascinating insight into how future conservators develop both precision and artistic confidence.
A Long-Standing Partnership
The exhibition reflects the ongoing collaboration between the Museum District in Toruń, the Faculty of Fine Arts at Nicolaus Copernicus University and the University's Student Scientific Circle for Conservation and Restoration of Works of Art.
Through this partnership, students gain the rare opportunity to work directly with original paintings from the museum's collection, an experience that plays an important role in their professional training.
The featured works were created under the supervision of Professor Elżbieta Basiul and Dr Magdalena Sitkiewicz.
Traditional Techniques on Display
Visitors will see studies produced using various artistic media, including:
- Pencil
- Coloured pencil
- Sepia
- Pastel
- Watercolour
- Oil paint
Together, the collection demonstrates the range of techniques students use while analysing and interpreting historic paintings.
Featured Artists
The exhibition includes works by:
- Agata Furtacz
- Agata Sałapa-Binnebesel
- Aldona Jarząb
- Aleksandra Włodarska
- Amelia Kulikjan
- Franciszek Karasiewicz
- Helena Szoplewska
- Karolina Magnuszewska
- Kinga Śliwińska
- Lena Bojakowska
- Matylda Rabiega
- Natalia Kozłów
- Zofia Kochanowska
- Zuzanna Rutkowska
Visitor Information
Exhibition: Między plamą a linią (Between the Spot and the Line)
Venue: Ratusz Staromiejski, Toruń
Dates: 15 July to 30 September 2026
Admission: Free
Located in the heart of Toruń's UNESCO-listed Old Town, the exhibition is an easy addition to a day of sightseeing and offers visitors the chance to experience a different side of the city's cultural life. Whether you have an interest in art, heritage or simply enjoy discovering local exhibitions, Między plamą a linią is well worth including on your itinerary before it closes at the end of September.
image credit: Krzysztof Golik, CC BY-SA 4.0 / Muzeum Okręgowe w Toruniu
