Orchard Lake, MI (October 2, 2025) — The Friends of Polish Art, in proud partnership with the Polish Institute of Culture & Research at Orchard Lake, is thrilled to announce the relaunch of the long-anticipated Fine Arts Competition, returning for its 29th edition after more than a decade.
The juried exhibition will begin with a public opening reception on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 2:00–5:00 PM at the Galeria, Orchard Lake Schools, 3535 Commerce Road, Orchard Lake, MI. Awards will be presented at 3:00 PM. The exhibition will remain on view through November 16, 2025. Admission is free and all are welcome.
About the Competition
First established decades ago by the Friends of Polish Art, the Fine Arts Competition has long been a cornerstone of Michigan’s Polish American cultural life. Previously named in honor of the late artist Richard Kubinski, whose legacy of creativity and community service continues to inspire, the competition was created to recognize outstanding artists and foster greater appreciation for the arts. After a hiatus of more than 10 years, this year marks its long-awaited return.
The 29th edition is open to artists aged 18 and older, welcoming submissions across all media and themes. A special award category highlights artwork inspired by Poland and Polish culture – past or present, personal or collective. Awards include:
· $500 Best in Show
· $400 Best Polish Theme
· Additional merit and honorable mention prizes
About the Presenting Organizations
The Friends of Polish Art (FPA), founded in 1937, is a Detroit-based cultural organization dedicated to promoting appreciation for Polish art, literature, and heritage. Through programs, scholarships, and competitions, FPA has supported generations of artists, writers, and students while fostering cultural understanding.
The Polish Institute of Culture & Research at Orchard Lake (PICROL), located on the historic Orchard Lake Schools campus, serves as a national center for the preservation and promotion of Polish and Polish American history, culture, and scholarship. Its collections, archives, and Galeria exhibitions attract researchers and visitors from across the United States and abroad.
Together, these two organizations bring renewed energy and a spirit of collaboration to the Fine Arts Competition, offering artists a platform to showcase their work and engage with Polish culture through the creative lens.
A Word from the Organizer
“We are delighted to reignite this historic competition and to present it in our Galeria, giving the public another opportunity to explore our campus and experience the work we do,” said Ania Bieciuk, Associate Director for Polonia Affairs at the Polish Institute of Culture & Research at Orchard Lake. “Welcoming artists across every medium is both a purpose and a joy – a true celebration of creativity. It is especially meaningful to see two storied organizations come together to make this revival possible.”
Exhibition Dates:
· Public Opening Reception: Sunday, October 5, 2025, 2–5 PM (Awards at 3 PM)
· Exhibition on View: October 5 – November 16, 2025
· Location: Galeria, Orchard Lake Schools, 3535 Commerce Road, Orchard Lake, MI
For more information, entry guidelines, and details about the competition, visit:
This fall, join us as we honor a new generation of artists and celebrate the enduring role of the arts in preserving and sharing Polish culture in America.