I am often asked what the exhibition is about and why I have created it. When I add that I am English and have no links with Poland, there is increased interest.

Why would an English person want to mount this exhibition?

The story of the Soviet invasion of eastern Poland, and eventually the whole of Poland, is almost unknown in Britain, despite the major role that Britain played in the final outcome.

It is a story that has been suppressed for years - the truth being very different from that portrayed by the government during and for many years after the war.

The exhibition is not, however, political; it is not about revenge or blame. It is about the story of those from Eastern Poland who have never had the recognition that their suffering deserves.

Poland was handed over to the Soviet Union after the war (actually the decisions were made long before the end of the war) with Britain's blessing, amid pro-Stalinist propaganda. The reasons for this and the reasons for the subsequent suppression of the facts are for historians to argue.

What becomes clear, however is that Britain has a debt of conscience to pay to Poland.

I was inspired to create the exhibition after hearing first hand the experiences of a woman who, aged 15 was arrested by the Soviets and spent 2 years in Russian prisons and labour camps before finally being settled in Britain.






That is why I created the exhibition.

I have also written a novel about the experiences of a family during the these times. The novel , The Ultimate Defiance, is based on true events.

Who am I?

Susan Young MSc ARPS- a photographer and writer from Devon.
Originally a physicist in industry, I later had a software training business and, on moving to Devon, a nursery. I photograph wildlife and contemporary landscapes, but always I want to use my photographs for a purpose and not simply to admire.
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