Agata Rek’s “Pocket-sized Identity” is a deeply personal exploration of national identity, cultural belonging, and the transformative power of reconnecting with one’s roots. This collection of miniature abstract collages weaves together symbolic moments from her life, drawing on the duality of her Polish heritage and her life in the United States.

The collection, purposefully completed on December 31, 2023, marks a pivotal moment in Agata’s journey after visiting Poland for the first time in five years. This experience rekindled her connection to her homeland and profoundly influenced her artistic expression. The collages, created both before and after her visit, reflect the evolution of her work, revealing a noticeable shift in tone and style—an echo of the nostalgia found in Polish art, shaped by the country’s turbulent history.

Each piece in this collection serves as a visual representation of Agata’s journey between two cultures. Her Polish passport, though expired, remains a powerful symbol of identity. It’s a keepsake that traces her journey from Poland to America—a journey that has reshaped her life, changed her name, and broadened her understanding of the world. Through this collection, Agata captures the resilience of national identity, the complexity of cultural traditions, and the longing for a connection to the past, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into her personal narrative and artistic evolution.