EN
The author, one of the major originators and creators of the title exhibition, deals with the problem of development of women’s self-reflection in the context of constructing their own identity and awareness necessary to determine what is hidden under the notion of femininity. The evolution of the position of a woman from Bochnia (i.e. a small-town woman) basically changes her from an object to a subject; passivity is replaced by activity. Using a neologism, “post-emancipation femininity” is what distinguishes a small-town woman, aware of her right to personal happiness (according to her own criteria), individual development, freedom of experience etc. The woman who regains her humanity has a right of choice (individualization and self-realization). Empathy, religiousness, a bond with her background (acceptance of its norms as her own, response to social expectations), apparent weakness and in fact remaining of invaluable assistance to her husband, father and sons influence, however, her sense of duty towards local community.