Orchard Lake, MI (3-30-26) – The Polish Institute of Culture & Research, in partnership with the Friends of Polish Art, is proud to announce the 30th Annual Fine Arts Competition, marking three decades of celebrating Polish artistic excellence and cultural heritage. Submissions for the 2026 competition will open on April 20, 2026, welcoming artists from across the region and beyond to participate in this distinguished and longstanding exhibition. 

Rooted in a shared mission to preserve and promote Polish culture, history, and artistic achievement, the Polish Institute of Culture & Research at Orchard Lake serves as a steward of heritage through education, exhibitions, and community engagement. Established in 1937, Friends of Polish Art, has long been dedicated to supporting artists and fostering an appreciation for Polish art within the broader public. 

While the competition honors Polish heritage, it embraces the universal language of art. Artists of all backgrounds are invited to submit work, regardless of subject matter or origin. In keeping with tradition, a Best Polish Theme award will be presented to the work that most powerfully evokes the Polish spirit, reflecting the depth, resilience, and beauty of Polish culture. The competition also continues to honor the legacy of Richard Kubiński, whose work and vision helped shape the artistic foundation that this exhibition proudly carries forward today.

The competition will be held at the Galeria at the Orchard Lake Schools, with key dates as follows:

• Opening Reception: September 12, 2026
• Closing Reception: October 24, 2026

This year’s competition will be juried by Detroit artist Dennis Orłowski, a master muralist and painter whose work has shaped the cultural and visual landscape of the region for decades. He has completed more than 100 large-scale murals, with notable works located throughout Metro Detroit in communities such as Hamtramck, Dearborn, and Grosse Pointe, as well as the historic mural at St. Anne’s Catholic Church on Mackinac Island. Trained in classical techniques and fresco painting in Mexico, his work reflects a deep reverence for history, faith, and community. A dedicated educator and mentor, Orłowski has spent years fostering young artists while continuing to create works that honor both Polish heritage and the broader human story.

Awards will be granted for Best Polish Theme, Best in Show, First, Second, and Third Place, as well as Honorable Mentions, recognizing excellence in artistic achievement, originality, and interpretation. Cash prizes will be awarded, continuing a long-standing tradition of supporting both emerging and established artists. The exhibition will take place at the Galeria, located at 3535 Commerce Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan. Admission is free and open to the public. Guests may view the exhibition during scheduled events or by arranging private appointments.

Questions regarding the exhibition may be directed to Elijah Majeski, Galeria Manager, at emajeski@picrol.org.

For additional details and a full calendar of events, please visit www.picrol.org.