International Biennial Contest/Exhibition of Artistic Tapestry
(Międzynarodowe Biennale Lnu)

The idea of international presentation of contemporary artistic weaving was initiated in Krosno for a good reason. The event originator chose the venue to allude to the rich weaving traditions of Krosno and its environs, the traditions deeply rooted as early as in the Middle Ages, at the beginning of Krosno as a municipality. The 15th-century Krosno was well-known for production of flax fustian/barracan and the cloth from Krosno was known not only in Poland but also in neighbouring European countries. Flax growing used to be one of the most common farming activities of the locals and its processing used to be one of core businesses. The old traditions revived in operations of former „Krosnolen”, a linen cloth facility whose quality products used to be merchantable on the world markets at large. After the Krosno weaving industry decline, starting from the 1990s, the local farmers totally abandoned flax growing as they did not have a market for their produce. Only memories and ruined factory buildings only have remained after praiseworthy weaving traditions and a charming legend about spinners (Prządki), young ladies from a local manor house, enchanted in stones, from whom the local geological (rock) reserve in neighbouring Czarnorzeki village took its name.

Each biennial contest is combined with a circulating display, presenting the works of the competitors. The works are displayed in Krosno at the main exhibition as well as abroad in the CARPATHIAN MOUNTAINS Euro region (Poland, Ukraine, Slovakia and Hungary).

It is worth emphasizing that the linen tapestry is the only international event of this type held in the Podkarpacie region. Apart from that, as it enjoys established position and popularity, it may be listed as a permanent event in the European calendar of artistic events. This fact is undoubtedly a reason for pride and, at the same time, it proves that – even in a small community – a serious artistic event on an international scale can be organized and it is worth the effort.