Location: Ethnographic Museum of Split (Iza Vestibula 4)

Dates: July 8 – October 18, 2026

Curated by Gordana Viljetić, Senior Curator, this exhibition explores the fascinating encounter between traditional embroidered wall hangings (zidnjaci) and contemporary internet memes—two forms of communication that, each in their own way, convey messages about life, values, relationships, and everyday experiences of their respective eras.

In collaboration with the Academy of Fine Arts of the University of Zagreb, the exhibition presents the Museum's collection of zidnjaci from the Textile Household Collection, examining their origins, geographical distribution, production techniques, themes, and, above all, their rich symbolic meanings. The exhibition uses this traditional household object as a starting point for reflecting on contemporary life within the context of digital culture.

By comparatively analysing the texts and images that expressed the attitudes, norms, and values embroidered onto decorative household textiles—items that adorned the walls of homes throughout Croatia and much of Europe during a large part of the 20th century—the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the values we express and share today. A century later, these values are communicated through virtual walls and the screens of high-tech devices, as we post, share, like, snap, tag, comment, and interact online.

The exhibition opening will be accompanied by a concert by the vocal research collective TRUN.

More information: https://etnografski-muzej-split.hr/