POLISH KALEIDOSCOPE CHICAGO
What Is Polish Kaleidoscope Chicago

The project features dozens of first and second-generation Polish Immigrants who reside in Chicago and contribute to the complex, colorful image of the Polish community (“Kaleidoscope”). To be included in the project, individuals needed to have knowledge of the Polish language, identify with Polish heritage, and act as ambassadors of Polish culture. The ultimate goal of the project is to present the various aspects of Polish identity in Chicago, without relying on stereotypes. Through the Kaleidoscop project, the audience can appreciate the unique and multifaceted nature of the Polish community in Chicago.

When Is It Done

The photography project “Polish Kaleidoscope Chicago” was completed in 2022, and preparations are now underway for the exhibition, including photo selection and the selection of printing service providers, sponsors and media partners. The exhibition opening is planned for April 28- May 27, 2023 at Dwell Studio in Chicago.
Who Are They

The subjects of the photography project “Polish Kaleidoscope Chicago” can be seen as ambassadors of Polish culture. They represent the rich and diverse heritage of Polish people living in Chicago, and their portraits are a testament to the contribution that Polish culture has made to the city. By showcasing the achievements, activities and their passions, the project aims to present a multifaceted image of Polish identity and culture, free from stereotypes. The project’s subjects serve as cultural ambassadors, promoting the rich history and traditions of the Polish community in Chicago to a wider audience.
Who is “Polish Kaleidoscope Chicago” for

We want everyone to enjoy our project! Our aim is to make it accessible and interesting for a wide range of audiences. We hope to reach both non-Poles living in the Chicago metropolitan area who may not know much about the Polish community and culture, as well as members of the Polonia who are excited to learn about the stories and accomplishments of other Poles living in the same region.

Who is The Author Grzegorz Litynski

Grzegorz is a documentary photographer with extensive experience and expertise in visual storytelling and environmental portraits. His particular interests are the projects involving people and the socio-cultural context. Grzegorz is an academic teacher and head of the Faculty of Travel and Documentary Photography at the Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Poland.
Grzegorz carried out the documentary projects for various organizations incl the Italian Embassy in Poland, Deutsches Polen Institute in Darmstadt, Germany, USA, University of Wrocław, Aeroclub of Poland, Prison Service, various cultural institutions and international NGOs. He works on commission and runs many long-term personal photography projects.
Grzegorz exhibited his works among others during the European Capital of Culture in Wroclaw 2016, at the National Culture Center in Warsaw, Ghetto Fighters House in Israel, Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, Deutsches Polen-Institute in Germany, Ukrainian National Museum and Dwell Studio in Chicago. His outdoor exhibition in Warsaw was opened personally by the President of Poland.

Grzegorz runs photography courses for various organizations incl Training Center of the Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Press Officers of the Prison Service, and Akademie am Tönsberg. He is the lead photographer at the Deutsches Polen-Institut in Darmstadt, Germany.
Grzegorz is the author of two textbooks on photography printed by the Academy of Silesia in Katowice in 2018 and 2019.
Who are Our Partners

The Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago has graciously given honorary patronage to our exhibition, and we are thrilled to have them on board. Additionally, we are excited to announce that the Chicago History Museum is partnering with us and showcasing some of Grzegorz Lityński’s photographs in their “Back Home, Polish Chicago” history exhibition. We also have support from PACC Polish American Chamber of Commerce of which we are members.
We are honored to be working with such distinguished organizations, and we believe their support and collaboration will help us reach even more people with our project.
How Can I Get Involved

Media Organizations: If you work for a media organization, we would love to hear from you! We would appreciate any coverage you can give our exhibition, including articles, interviews, or features in your publication or on your website.
Sponsors: We are also looking for sponsors to help us fund our exhibition. If you or your organization would like to support our project, please get in touch with us. We offer a variety of sponsorship opportunities, including naming rights, branding, and advertising.

Personal Involvement: If you are an individual who would like to get involved, there are many ways you can help. You can volunteer your time to help us set up and run the exhibition, or you can spread the word about our project on social media or to your friends and family. You can also attend our exhibition and bring along others to experience the wonderful stories of the Polish community in Chicago.

No matter how you choose to get involved, your support is greatly appreciated and will help us make this exhibition a success.

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Tags: Chicago, Dunning, Dwell Studio Chicago, Grzegorz Litynski, Polish Kaleidoscope Chicago