Celebrate the Culmination of "Sacred Images, Holy Spaces: Art & Faith in Poland and Italy" at the Galeria

This significant evening will be graciously hosted by the Hon. Paola Allegra Baistrocchi, Consul of Italy in Detroit, and Mr. Richard Walawender, Honorary Consul of Poland in Detroit. Attendees will be treated to a captivating musical performance at 7:00 PM, featuring:

• Baritone Jake Surzyn is a Michigan native renowned for his rich tone and mature artistry. Jake has performed with esteemed opera companies, including Detroit Opera and Opera MODO. Notably, he covered the role of Councilman in Mazzoli’s Breaking the Waves and performed as Antonio in Yuval Sharon’s production of Ragnar Kjartansson’s Bliss. He has also portrayed roles such as Marquis de la Force in Dialogues des Carmélites, Doctor Gregg in Gallantry, and Papageno in Die Zauberflöte. Jake holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Michigan, where he performed roles, including Schaunard in La bohème and Melisso in Alcina.
• Pianist Vanessa Kwiatkowski is a Toledo-based pianist, teacher, and church musician. She began her musical journey at age five and has since participated in notable events such as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Mozart Sonata Marathon and an international piano festival in Nałęczów, Poland. She holds a master's degree in piano performance and pedagogy from Bowling Green State University and a bachelor's degree in music performance from Wayne State University.

Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Ania Bieciuk, Associate Director for Polonia Affairs, expressed, “We are thrilled by the excitement surrounding this event and the Galeria’s renovation. This exhibit beautifully merges and celebrates two powerful cultures, heritage, and nationalities—Italy and Poland—so prominently represented in metro Detroit. We are eager for our inaugural season to continue, fostering an enduring culture of relentless pride, elevation, and education of our shared heritage. We are grateful to have so many guests and supporters along this journey. While the exhibit concludes on January 31, our inaugural season continues with a series of events to celebrate and educate the community about our rich cultural heritage.”

Sacred Images, Holy Spaces: Art & Faith in Poland and Italy
Friday, January 24, 2025
6:00 to 9:00 PM
Galeria, Polish Institute of Culture & Research at Orchard Lake
3535 Commerce Rd., Orchard Lake, MI 48324
7:00 PM Musical Performance

This event is free and open to the public. Space is limited; RSVP by January 22nd at info@picrol.org or segreteria.detroit@esteri.it

We look forward to welcoming you to an evening of art, music, and cultural celebration.