The European Parliament hosted the grand opening of the exhibition “Włocławek Faience—A Legacy of the Past and Present,” organized at the initiative of PiS MEP and EP Quaestor Kosma Złotowski. The exhibition presents the history and contemporary face of one of the most recognizable cultural symbols of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship.
“Włocławek faience is an important part of our region’s cultural and economic heritage. Thanks to the dedication of local enthusiasts and artists, the tradition of creating these unique products is still alive. “This exhibition is an expression of gratitude to all those who, through their work, make our surroundings more beautiful, more colorful, and more inspiring,” Kosma Złotowski emphasized during the opening.
The PiS Member of the European Parliament noted that the distinctive patterns of Włocławek faience have been present in Polish homes for decades and remain an important part of the national heritage to this day. He extended special thanks to Tyberiusz Rajs, whose passion, talent, and dedication contributed to the preparation of the exhibition and the promotion of Włocławek faience beyond Poland’s borders.
Another key element of the exhibition is the work of the winners of the “Włocławek Faience Through the Eyes of Youth” competition, organized by the MEP in schools in Włocławek, Rypin, and Aleksandrów Kujawski. The creators of the winning entries were invited to Brussels to attend the exhibition’s opening in person.
“It is precisely thanks to the commitment and talent of the younger generation that this traditional craft has a chance to survive and thrive in the future,” Złotowski noted.
During the event, participants were able not only to learn about the history of Włocławek faience and its contemporary interpretations but also to watch a demonstration of hand-painting ceramics prepared by artists associated with this unique tradition. Under their guidance, they also had the opportunity to try their hand at decorating characteristic faience patterns.
The exhibition’s opening was attended by Members of the European Parliament, employees of European institutions, local government representatives, artists, and guests from Włocławek, Rypin, and Aleksandrów Kujawski. The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, also visited the exhibition. The exhibition is on view at the European Parliament in Brussels through the end of the week.
