Exhibition Opening: "Stone Shadows" by Bolesław Ryziński

From October 13th to November 25th, 2022, the Fijewski Gallery hosted an exceptional exhibition showcasing the art of Polish-American photographer, Bolesław Ryziński. Set within Warsaw's Elektrownia Powiśle (located at Dobra 42, level +2), the pop-up store of the Fijewski Gallery displayed 18 of the artist’s photographs, each highlighting his experiences and creative journey while residing in Westport, Connecticut.

Titled "Kamienne Cienie" (Stone Shadows), the exhibition not only highlighted Ryziński's work but also inaugurated a series called “Sztuka Polska w świecie, sztuka świata w Fijewski Gallery” (Polish Art in the World, World's Art in Fijewski Gallery). This initiative seeks to bridge the gap in historical records that often overlook the significant contributions made by Polish artists who lived and created abroad after 1939, especially in North America.

Collaborating with eminent curators like Prof. Jan Wiktor Sienkiewicz and Lech Majewski, the Fijewski Gallery has brought Ryziński's photographic marvels to the Polish art collectors and enthusiasts.

Renowned film and theater director, writer, poet, and painter Lech Majewski reflects on the exhibit by saying, “There's no simpler figure than a shadow – this ephemeral phantom appears or disappears when it cannot feed on light. Combining them into Stone Shadows is an oxymoron, a communion of opposites, bringing us closer to the deeper paradoxical logic necessary to understand a world that exists thanks to the harmony of opposing forces.”

Prof. Jan Wiktor Sienkiewicz, a distinguished expert in the history of Polish emigrant art, delves deep into Bolesław Ryziński’s profile. Born in Międzyzdroje, Poland, in 1952, Ryziński journeyed from being a student at Politechnika Szczecińska to an architect in New York and eventually a globally recognized artist. His sculptures, often made from wood, are an exploration of the natural world and the intricate details and beauty within it. His transition from architecture to art showcases his vast talent and his profound ability to blend the lines between these disciplines.

There's no simpler figure than a shadow – this ephemeral phantom appears or disappears when it cannot feed on light. Combining them into Stone Shadows is an oxymoron, a communion of opposites, bringing us closer to the deeper paradoxical logic necessary to understand a world that exists thanks to the harmony of opposing forces.

The mission of Fijewski Gallery is clear: To introduce outstanding artists of Polish origin, who have achieved global success but might not be widely recognized in Poland, to the local collectors and art aficionados.

Founder Jakub Fijewski emphasizes, “By launching a series of exhibitions in the Fijewski Gallery, we are encouraging people to get to know these artists who have achieved immense success abroad yet might not be as recognized in Poland. We are thrilled to partner with Elektrownia Powiśle in realizing the first project in a series of dozens more to come."

The vernissage for "Kamienne Cienie – Bolesław Ryziński" took place on October 13th, 2022, at 7:00 pm. Those interested had to register on the gallery’s website. This incredible evening was partnered with esteemed organizations such as Villa Poranek, AMC Aviation, Elektrownia Powiśle, and Dom Whisky. Attendees not only got a chance to appreciate Ryziński's artwork but also engaged in a musical performance, enjoyed refreshments, and even had a chance to meet the artist himself.

For all who seek a union of art, history, and culture, this exhibition serves as a beacon of inspiration, bringing world-class Polish art back home, and giving it the recognition it truly deserves.