News Archives - musialjanicka.art

Inne Światy – Photography Exhibition in Wrocław

Joanna — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 16:51:27 +0000

What happens when photographers meet in an old courtyard, bring their own hammers and nails and put their photographs up on the walls?

An exhibition comes to life – one that cannot be entirely planned, because nobody knows how long the photographs will stay where they are or whether someone might take one home.

On 3 September 2026, I took part in a photography exhibition and performance in Wrocław, marking the end of Inne Światy (Other Worlds), a summer photography project organised by Wrocławska Loża Fotograficzna.

The project took place on Instagram. Every week, a new photography theme was announced and photographers shared their own interpretations. The organisers recognised some of the photographs and selected them for the final exhibition.

Przestrzeń w Podwórzu – a Unique Open -Air Photography Gallery

We gathered at Przestrzeń w Podwórzu, a unique open-air photography gallery tucked away in an old courtyard between Stawowa, Piłsudskiego and Kościuszki streets. The gallery was created and is curated by Łukasz Montygierd-Łoyba.

This is not an exhibition where we simply arrive to view a finished display. Each selected photographer brings their own photograph, a hammer and nails. Then we hang our work in a designated spot. Not every wall is available, so finding the right place for each photograph is part of the experience.

And then? We can explore the other photographs, talk, enjoy meeting people who share our passion, and become part of something that is taking shape right before our eyes.

I particularly love the idea behind this gallery. Photographs can remain on the courtyard walls until the weather takes its toll. Or someone falls in love with one and takes it home. In return, the new owner sends the curator a photograph of the work in its new surroundings.

The exhibition becomes an adventure, and the photographs have the opportunity to begin a new life.

Three Recognised Photographs by Joanna Musiał-Janicka

The Inne Światy project recognised three of my photographs.: Mindfulness in Mist, Into the Light and Hope / Ku Światłu i Nadziei, and TheLight of Discovery / Zachwyt Odkrycia.

It was a real pleasure to share my photographs and meet people who are just as passionate about photography as I am. I love these kinds of gatherings, where we can share what interests and inspires us, and discover different ways of seeing the world.

Thank you to Wrocławska Loża Fotograficzna, Łukasz, and everyone who took part. Congratulations to all the recognised photographers!

If you find yourself in Wrocław, take a look inside Przestrzeń w Podwórzu. You might discover a photograph you would like to invite into your home.

See you next year!

P.S. Here are the framed 30 × 45 cm poster-edition prints, photographed at home just before they left for the exhibition.

The post Inne Światy – Photography Exhibition in Wrocław appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

The World Is Where You Choose To Stop – Recognition for a Photo Slideshow in Rzeszów

Joanna — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 12:03:58 +0000

“The World Is Where You Choose To Stop” received a recognition in the Photo Slideshow category of the “2025 Through the Lenses of Polish Women Photographers” competition, organised by Polish Women Photographers.

On 7 March 2026, the opening of the exhibition “2025 Through the Lenses of Polish Women Photographers” took place at the Gallery of Photography of the City of Rzeszów. The competition results were announced during the opening.

This year’s edition received 99 entries in three categories: single photograph, photo project, and photo slideshow. The jury, consisting of Anna Bedyńska, Jan Skwara, Mariusz Guzek and Małgorzata Wakuluk, selected the winners and recognitions in each category.

My work “The World Is Where You Choose To Stop” received a recognition in the Photo Slideshow category. The prize was a voucher for a photography trip, sponsored by the boutique travel agency Pakuj Plecak.

“The World Is Where You Choose To Stop”

My photo slideshow consists of 37 photographs and lasts just under three minutes.

It is a record of my small journeys to the nearby city park in Nysa – and, at the same time, journeys towards myself.

When photographing nature, I stop at things that are usually easy to overlook: a small detail, light, texture, shape. I am interested in the little things that appear right beside us when we simply give ourselves enough time to notice them.

This is how “The World Is Where You Choose To Stop” came about.

I am happy that this work was recognised specifically in the slideshow category. This form allows individual photographs to come together as a short story and to show not only the images, but also a way of seeing.

Rzeszów – More Than Just a Competition

Our trip to Rzeszów was also an opportunity for a family trip. This time we travelled by train, which was a nice change in itself and became part of the adventure.

And Rzeszów? I have to admit that it surprised us with its charm. Instead of treating the trip solely as a photography event, we had the chance to walk around the city, spend some time together and discover it.

The opening and meeting with the photographers at the Gallery of Photography of the City of Rzeszów were a very good experience for me. Especially as the event took place just before International Women’s Day.

“2025 Through the Lenses of Polish Women Photographers” – Also in the Book

An important part of the project is also a photography book featuring all the works submitted to this year’s open call.

I am happy that my work – “The World Is Where You Choose To Stop” – is included as well. The publication features a short note about my slideshow and one of the frames from the work.

It is a lovely feeling to see my photograph not only on a screen, but also in a publication documenting this entire edition of the project.

The Exhibition Continues Its Journey

The story of “2025 Through the Lenses of Polish Women Photographers” does not end in Rzeszów.

After the summer break, the exhibition set off on the road again. On 4 September 2026, it arrived in Zamość, where another opening took place – this time at the Gallery of Photography at the Town Hall.

The exhibition features works selected from the submissions to this year’s edition of the project. The programme also included a meeting with Anna Bedyńska devoted to photography and its impact on social change.

Relacja fotograficzna autorstwa Marka Rysia; strona Facebook: Polish Women Photographers i Zamojskie Towarzystwo Fotograficzne

I am happy that “The World Is Where You Choose To Stop” can travel with the exhibition and reach new places and new audiences.

For me, this story began with small journeys to the nearby park in Nysa. Then it took me to Rzeszów, on a family train journey, and now – together with the exhibition – it continues on its way. The exhibition will travel next to Warsaw and then to Spain.

And I think that is what I like most about photography. You never quite know where one photograph might take you.

A small record of the journey

I am also keeping a few tangible records of this moment – the recognition certificate and competition certificate, which now join the growing collection of documents documenting this part of my photographic journey.

The post The World Is Where You Choose To Stop – Recognition for a Photo Slideshow in Rzeszów appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

Opening of the exhibition “THERE IS ANOTHER WORLD TOO” in Warsaw

Joanna — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 19:59:22 +0000

Akademia Sztuk Podziemnych, Metro Wilanowska, Warsaw

Opening: 02/06/2026

Exhibition on view: 02/06/2026 – 30/06/2026

Curator: Małgorzata Wakuluk / wakulukphotography.com /

Artists: members of Polish Women Photographers:
Marlena Cechmistrz-Milczarek, Mirosława Czochańska, Małgorzata Dominiak, Agnieszka Drzewińska, Natalia Szczygielska, Paulina Holtz, Joanna Musiał-Janicka, Anna Jopp, Dorota Kotowska, Katarzyna Kozłowska, Beata Kroszka, Agnieszka Król, Beata Lechowicz, Michalina Madura-Motyka, Iwona Makuch, Katarzyna Malinowska-Burchardt, Natasza Margańska, Paulina Michałek, Małgorzata Mikołajczyk, Anna Kanabaj, Anna Pisarek, Barbara Ryszkowska, Aneta Sobieraj, Monika Sokół-Rudowska, Małgorzata Tomczuk, Magdalena Topczewska, Anna Wibig, Katarzyna Zabelska, Jolanta Zielińska-Jażdżyk

Polish Women Photographers Group Exhibition

In the space of the Underground Akademia Sztuk Podziemnych, Metro Wilanowska, Warsaw, you can now see an group exhibition “THERE IS ANOTHER WORLD TOO” featuring twenty-nine photographs by members of Polish Women Photographers – including works by Joanna Musiał-Janicka, as part of this inspiring community.

This is the first collective exhibition of photographers associated with PWP presented in a public space. The exhibition showcases diverse female perspectives on the world around us – filled with emotion, reflection, and stories that are not always obvious at first glance.

If you happen to be nearby, we warmly invite you to stop for a moment in the midst of everyday rush and discover photographs that transform a daily journey through the metro into an encounter with art, simplicity, and perhaps even cherished memories and dreams. And if you decide to visit especially for the exhibition, it will be even more meaningful. Take this opportunity to experience something good.

Curatorial Statement of exhibition “THERE IS ANOTHER WORLD TOO”

Casting a spell on a merciless reality, gathering fragments of memory preserved within photographic frames, we bring back to life things long dead, faded through abandonment, pushed to the margins by images filled with suffering – images that were meant to shake our consciences, yet instead placed white gloves upon our hands and dulled our sensitivity, allowing dehumanization to reach its peak.

Through our photographs, we therefore reach for the last remaining fragments of things beautiful and important in their simplicity, to remind ourselves that, above all, we were meant to be human, and that there is another world too.

This exhibition is neither an attempt to escape reality nor to beautify it. It does not deny the suffering, violence, chaos, and anxiety of the contemporary world. Rather, it emerged from a need to regain balance and to remind ourselves that our humanity is also shaped through tenderness, mindfulness, and the ability to notice things that may seem small and insignificant.

Today, we live in a world oversaturated with images. Images of tragedy, war, aggression, and moral decline reach us every day with overwhelming intensity. Paradoxically, however, their excess increasingly evokes not reflection but indifference. Sensitivity is replaced by the mechanical scrolling of information, while emotional overload causes us to lose sight of what is quiet, ordinary, and true.

That is precisely why we now need photographs that do not shout. Photographs that do not seek to shock through the brutality of their message, but instead remind us of relationships, closeness, light, everyday life, and simple human gestures. Of a world that, despite everything, is still capable of being good, warm, and deeply human.

There Is Another World Too is an attempt to preserve sensitivity and restore meaning to simple things. It is a quiet manifesto of normality, humanism, and the need to remain human.

Photographs and video by Agnieszka Drzewińska

Link to the event on Facebook : https://fb.me/e/9PyoRQPQM

Discover the Photography of Exhibition

If one of the photographs from the exhibition stays with you after you leave, perhaps it was meant to accompany you for longer.

The artwork presented by Joanna Musiał-Janicka in ‘There Is Another World Too‘ is available as a limited collector’s edition: Abundance of Fairy Tales

The world is where you choose to stop.

See you at exhibition “THERE IS ANOTHER WORLD TOO” in Warsaw.

Photographs by Agnieszka Drzewińska

The post Opening of the exhibition “THERE IS ANOTHER WORLD TOO” in Warsaw appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

Mindfulness (by The Tree) VR Experience

Joanna — Thu, 07 May 2026 13:43:04 +0000

For those who are far away.
For those who could not be with us in Nysa.
For those who wish to pause for a moment.
For those who need a moment of mindfulness.
For those who find peace in nature.
For those who like returning to good emotions.
For those who wish to experience it once again.
And for myself – as a memory.

And for those who know that:

“The world is where you choose to stop.”

The virtual version of Mindfulness by the Tree was created alongside the solo exhibition presented at the Muzeum Powiatowe in Nysa.

It allows visitors from different places to experience the project and return to its atmosphere of mindfulness, nature, light, and presence.

MINDFULNESS (by The Tree)

The physical exhibition took place at Muzeum Powiatowe in Nysa from 13 March 2026 until 3 May 2026.
The Virtual Reality exhibition remains open until 26 May 2026.

Exhibition Curator:

Adriana Zalewska-Wąsowicz

Artist of the Mindfulness (by The Tree) Exhibition:

Joanna Musiał-Janicka (Poland)

Mindfulness (by The Tree) VR Experience

Photography and Mixed Media Art: hand embroidery on pigment prints of photographs (new project – click here and here to read more).

Media Partners:

Special thanks to all partners and supporters whose presence and support have accompanied this journey through mindfulness, nature, and the everyday beauty we can all discover:

PADIC – Pol Art Design Impact Culture

Polish Women Photographers

Polskie Towarzystwo Fototerapeutyczne

Portal Nysa

Respublica Nyskiego Regionu

VR Exhibition

The virtual exhibition has now come to an end, but you are warmly invited to experience the exhibition film on my YouTube channel and revisit the atmosphere of Mindfulness by the Tree like moving through digital space.

Take a Virtual Journey!

Experience the digital copy of the exhibition Mindfulness (by The Tree) from anywhere in the world!

Thank you for taking the time to experience this exhibition.

If you would like to go deeper into the story behind opening of ‘Mindfulness (by the Tree)’, I warmly invite you to visit my blog, where I share reflections, moments from the vernissage, and the atmosphere of the exhibition in Nysa.

This project continues beyond the images – in observation, presence, and shared experience. It is not a finished story, but a lifelong practice that I will keep returning to and developing over time.

Thank You for beeing here!

Joanna

The post Mindfulness (by The Tree) VR Experience appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

Exhibition opening Mindfulness (by the Tree) in Nysa

Joanna — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:50:16 +0000

It was exactly this sight that moved me so deeply that it was difficult to gather my thoughts and capture them in words during my Exhibition opening Mindfulness (by the Tree) in Nysa.

I knew the room was filling up and that more chairs were being brought in (thank you for the help). Yet it was only when the official part of the opening began — when the museum director Edward Hałajko welcomed the guests, and the curator of the exhibition Adriana Zalewska-Wąsowicz spoke about my artistic path and said a few touching words about me — and when I stood up to give my speech (already with tears in my eyes) and turned toward the audience… that I saw it.

I did not expect this sight: people were standing and could not fit into the (quite large) Room 104 of the Powiatowe Muzeum in Nysa.

They were present — and it is exactly this presence that matters here.

I saw faces I had not seen for a long time, friends and people I had not yet met. I saw people who had travelled quite a few kilometres to be there. Family, friends, loved ones.

I would like to thank each and every one of you for coming.

It is especially important to me also because the theme of this exhibition concerns something very simple and at the same time very necessary — mindfulness and its influence on our well-being.

The official part of the opening was enriched by a concert by Agni Kruszewska (Whispers of Crystals) played on crystal singing bowls. The sound introduced the audience into a calm and reflective atmosphere.

This moment of quietness was very symbolic. This conscious pause is exactly what the whole project is about.

Mindfulness in Nature: Finding Inspiration in a Single Tree

During my speech I explained — well …or at least tried to explain — how it happened that one particular tree became my inspiration. A photograph from the first walk when I encountered the tree appears as the background image on the exhibition poster.

I spoke about how, regardless of the weather or the season, I directed my steps, my lens, my curiosity and my attention toward its branches, fruits and blossoms. I watched the light building the scene, the fanciful drawings of frost, rain, or the restless sun.

With time I discovered that it was not only about photography.

It was also a practice of mindfulness — but also of wonder and gratitude — for being able to be here and to be part of something so beautiful.

This whole process had a very positive effect — and still has — on my well-being. And perhaps through my photographs it will inspire others to practise mindfulness. This is my wish and my intention.

My works are, of course, records of nature’s creations, but they are also a symbol — a symbol of mindfulness beyond their aesthetic, decorative or collectible value. When I look at these photographs, I do not see branches and blossoms. I see the goodness flowing from that moment.

I would like viewers to be able to pause for a moment.

To remember what is good and important for them.
To take a breath — and draw strength from nature and from mindfulness.
And then — with renewed strength — return to everyday life, having at hand a tool called mindfulness.

Mindfulness for wonder and beauty is always available. It does not require knowledge or special techniques. It does not require preparation. We cannot harm ourselves with it. All it takes is a moment — truly just a few seconds.
And what is important — it can be learned.

There were so many good emotions gathered that I wished to share them through my photographs.

Exhibition opening Mindfulness (by the Tree) in Nysa in numbers

At the exhibition one can see 20 photographs in a larger format from a limited, certified collector’s edition. Each work is hand-signed and embossed with the artist’s dry stamp.

The exhibition is complemented by four works from my new project “Embroidered Light.” In these photographs I manually emphasize the light with shimmering thread.

Light is for me a symbol of goodness.
Hope. Meaning. A path.

At the end I quoted a few sentences that best express the meaning of this project and which I would like visitors to take with them after seeing the exhibition:

Marcus Aurelius:
“The soul becomes dyed with the colour of its thoughts.”

Vincent van Gogh:
“If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.”

The poet Mary Oliver:
“The instruction for living a life is simple: pay attention, be astonished, and tell about it.”

Thank You to Our Media Patrons for Supporting “Mindfulness by the Tree”

Finally, I would like to sincerely thank all the media patrons who supported the exhibition “Mindfulness (by the Tree)” and helped share this project with a wide audience.

Your support and presence have been invaluable on this journey through mindfulness, nature, and the everyday beauty we can all discover.

PADIC – Pol Art Design Impact Culture

Polish Women Photographers

Polskie Towarzystwo Fototerapeutyczne

Portal Nysa

Respublica Nyskiego Regionu

During the opening, I also had the honour of receiving the exhibition certificate for “Mindfulness by the Tree” from the director of Muzeum Powiatowe w Nysie, Edward Hałajko. It was a very meaningful and symbolic moment for me.

I try to weave a story with my photographs and I believe that exhibitions are the beginning of a conversation, not its conclusion, and… “the world is where you choose to stop.”

If you happen to be in Nysa in the coming weeks, I warmly invite you to visit the Muzeum Powiatowe in Nysa.

The exhibition “Mindfulness (by the Tree)” can be viewed until 3 May 2026.

See you at the exhibition at Muzeum Powiatowe in Nysa!

Muzeum Powiatowe w Nysie, 48-300 Nysa, ul. Biskupa Jarosława 11 – http://www.muzeum.nysa.pl/
Opening: 13/03/2026, 18.00
Exhibition on view: 13/03/2026 – 03/05/2026
Curator: Adriana Zalewska-Wąsowicz
Live concert during the opening: Agni Kruszewska @WhisperOfCrystals

The post Exhibition opening Mindfulness (by the Tree) in Nysa appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

Exhibition Mindfulness (By the Tree)

Joanna — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:54:52 +0000

You are warmly invited to my exhibition of artistic nature photography, “Mindfulness by the Tree.”

Muzeum Powiatowe w Nysie, 48-300 Nysa, ul. Biskupa Jarosława 11

Opening: 13/03/2026, 18.00

Exhibition on view: 13/03/2026 – 03/05/2026

Curator: Adriana Zalewska-Wąsowicz

Artist: Joanna Musiał-Janicka

What does your world look like when you stop rushing?
Will you allow a single flower immersed in shimmering sunlight to invite you to return often to where it has its roots?

It is precisely in such moments that Joanna Musiał-Janicka discovers further impressions that reveal to her the fascinating world of macro photography. Their record is not merely a series of frames; it is an adventure in discovering light and the world – the inner one within herself, and the outer one in the branches of a single tree. An adventure that may well become a lifelong project. It is also a manifestation of the philosophy and importance of process over results, reflecting the Artist’s intention: to find calm and solace in nature. It is the phenomenon of pausing in our busy times with mindfulness, so as not to miss the miracle of life.

The project “Mindfulness by the Tree,” carried out since 11.01.2024 and still ongoing, is a very unique and personal record of moments of contact with nature and its beauty. The Artist spends long hours by one specific tree, growing quietly in the Municipal Park in Nysa, just two hundred meters from her home – searching for frames in deep focus. Beyond being a tribute to Mother Nature for her creations, these images are a record of moments of conscious presence, quieting, and finding harmony. With flowers, greenery, gusts of wind, birdsong, and at times frost and drizzle. In every weather and in every season.

Mindfulness in Autumn

Mindfulness in Mist

Mindfulness in Winter

Why not the whole park? Why not another tree, but this particular spindle tree?

“During one of my walks with the camera, ‘something’ told me to turn off the beaten path, although I was already heading home. That is how this synergy of reflection, light, and dwelling within one ecosystem began – my ‘friendship’ with the Tree,” Joanna Musiał-Janicka explains. It is fascinating how focusing on the act of searching for new images in a well-known place – thus requiring great creativity – can quiet the rush of thoughts and become a meditation with the camera in hand. Perhaps anyone seeking inner balance can discover it right next to themselves? The collection “Mindfulness by the Tree” is also a set of reflections on the cyclicality of the seasons – from the bloom and burst of spring emotions along with flowering blossoms, to the soothing and calming influence of winter and the slowing of pace.

Mindfulness in Pink

Mindfulness in Fruits

Mindfulness in Beige

The challenge the Artist has set for herself in this never-ending journey has a therapeutic dimension – it combines her passion for photography with her interest in exploring the depths of the human psyche in psychology and personal development. She first experienced for herself the wellbeing that comes from contact with flora and fauna, and then decided to share these feelings and pass them on in the form of artistic macro photographs. These photographs have become a symbol of mindfulness and its positive impact on the human psyche – a reminder that inner harmony is not a privilege, but our fundamental need. At the same time, they retain their collector’s, decorative, and aesthetic value. From this idea the title of the entire collection was born, and observation becomes here a form of presence.

“He who observes attentively sees more.” – Karol Darwin

About the Works – Mindfulness (By the Tree)

The exhibition of Joanna Musiał-Janicka’s macro photography allows viewers to immerse themselves in the details of nature thanks to large formats. These photographs are created through an original, meditative process of working with light and plant, without staging or interference with the existing scene. It is purely observation – a moment captured through the lens, without any manipulation in graphic software or the use of artificial intelligence.

The Artist invites the viewer to slow down, look attentively, and personally experience the beauty recorded in the photograph, treated as a pretext to pause.

It is worth noting that the “Mindfulness by the Tree” series is one of Joanna’s signed collector’s limited edition fine art photography series in exhibition quality, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, available for purchase also as canvas prints and posters (in various sizes).

“The world is where you choose to stop.“

Live concert during the opening: Agni Kruszewska @WhisperOfCrystals

Partners:

PADIC – Pol Art Design Impact Culture

Polish Women Photographers

Polskie Towarzystwo Fototerapeutyczne

Portal Nysa

Respublica Nyskiego Regionu

Link to the event on Facebook : https://fb.me/e/9f030YeAJ

The post Exhibition Mindfulness (By the Tree) appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

My New Project – part II

Joanna — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:24:00 +0000

I said “what”, I said “why” – (in the first part of the blog here) – but I haven’t yet said “how” I would carry out my New Project, which… is now finished.

To further emphasize the light in the photograph titled “Hope and Freedom”, I embroidered the contours of the flares with silver metallic thread. I added texture and an extra sparkle. The photograph now shimmers depending on the angle of view and the light falling on it.

My work explores photo embroidery as a form of mixed media on paper.

Highlighting light with hand embroidery

I had a wonderful time during this work – it was a joyful meditation and an additional moment of calm that extended the whole process of “working” with the image. First came a walk with the camera, fresh air, contact with nature, searching for the frame and focusing on it (not on the thoughts swirling in my head). Then post-production on the computer, the print… and as a kind of bonus – embroidery and painting the dots.

An intuitive process, freedom of creation.

It’s a combination of photography and process, born in joy and light. It all started with my simple decision to pause – a moment for myself, a moment to marvel at the world and at the light.

It is following the light – including the inner light – allowing yourself to make mistakes, and searching for your own path – along with having fun and enjoying the time.

What does the light illuminate for you today, and what does it remind you of?

Because…

The world is where you choose to stop.

…and you will notice it.

I present my New Project, which I have named: Embroidered Light

From a photographer, I have naturally evolved into a textile artist 🙂 , combining photography with mixed media techniques. Where thread meets light.

The post My New Project – part II appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

My New Project

Joanna — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:16:50 +0000

With great enthusiasm, genuine joy, and a strong sense of curiosity, I am starting a new project today!
It is an idea that has been quietly growing in my mind for some time. Only now has it taken its final shape. I know what it is and how I want to develop it. The materials are ready, and I can finally begin.

Before I tell you more about the project itself, I need to start with this photograph, which will be the focus of the project. This part is essential for understanding the entire concept. Very soon, everything will come together logically — from the general idea to the details.

The photograph is titled “Hope and Freedom.”
It belongs to the “Hope” collection and was created especially for the International Exhibition FREEDOM, which took place during an artistic residency I recently had the pleasure of participating in. The residency and the exhibition were held at the Royal Blue VA Gallery in Stockholm.

This work is my personal interpretation of the exhibition’s main theme. It expresses freedom through the act of creation itself.

Find “Hope and Freedom” in Shop

If we begin to analyze this photograph, we quickly notice that many classical rules of art are absent.
The main subject is not centered. The rule of thirds is not applied…. There are no strong focal points in the traditional sense.

And here… a meaningful pause.

What if I asked you a question from my other field of interest — psychology and personal development:

How would your perception of this photograph change if I told you that I simply photographed… light?

Exactly.

In this image, I photographed light — and joy, playfulness, and pure fun.
I created it intuitively, without control, expectations, and without following rules. It was about enjoyment and freedom throughout the entire process — from going out for a walk to post-production.

I noticed the light and I pressed the shutter.

That is what freedom in creation means to me.

I photographed those light flares purely for fun and pleasure.

Light is something I photograph often – if not always. But that is a topic for another time.

For me,

Light is associated only with positive meaning.

Culturally and socially, we are taught to perceive light as something good. We say ‘to shed light on a matter’ or ‘in the light of this’. We use the symbol of a warm home fire.
Our ancestors – the first humans – used light as protection against predators and danger. In a way, this association is written into our genes.

From an existential and philosophical perspective, light represents direction. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Even the Renaissance is understood as an era of illumination, growth, and a new beginning.

And finally, in a spiritual and religious context, light symbolizes God , a Higher Power:
“I am the light of the world” (John 8:12).

For me personally, light is also a symbol of the inner spark we all carry within. The one worth remembering, the one worth appreciating, the one worth following – because when we do, it shines even brighter.

To sum it up:

Light is goodness, truth, faith, hope, and wonder.

I believe we all instinctively feel that light is good.
We turn our faces toward the sun – and our soul recognizes it immediately.

…and this is exactly the light I want to highlight in my project.

Have a great day!

/ Joanna

Continue reading: Embroidered Light – the process behind the work

The post My New Project appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

Summary of the “Rapid Accelerator” Residency and the FREEDOM International Exhibition

Joanna — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 01:37:46 +0000

This is the final post in the series dedicated to the Visual Artist’s/Curator’s Rapid Accelerator – Stockholm 2025 Residency and its accompanying FREEDOM International Exhibition. I wanted this text to serve as a calm conclusion to the entire process – a moment of pause, reflection, and gratitude.

The Opening and Live Experience

The physical FREEDOM International Exhibition took place at Royal Blue VA Gallery in Stockholm, LM Ericsson Väg 1 and was a unique opportunity to connect with art and to mark the end of the artistic residency. As can be seen, the opening was full of conversations, emotions, and genuine exchange of experiences.

oplus_8388608

oplus_8388640

oplus_8388608

These direct encounters remind us how important it is to experience art in real spaces. Not just as decor creating an atmosphere, but as a catalyst for dialogue and reflection.

Recognition and Certificates

Participation in the residency and exhibition was honored with diplomas and official certificates. I see them not only as formal confirmation of involvement, but primarily as a symbol of the journey, the process, and the courage to continue developing.

My Works at the FREEDOM International Exhibition

At the FREEDOM exhibition, I presented three selected photographic works that reflect my ideas about freedom, mindfulness, and inner space. They were part of both the physical and VR exhibitions.

Summary of the “Rapid Accelerator” Residency and the FREEDOM International Exhibition

Freedom expressed through creation is its highest form. It is, for me, the possibility, space, time and capacity to do nothing but create in mindfulness – simply being in the here and now, with thought aligned to the rhythm of breath. A pure expression that brings joy, wonder and gratitude: the essence of existence. /Joanna Musiał-Janicka

Gallery of Works Available in the Shop

For those who would like to revisit the works presented in exhibition – or bring them into their own space, I prepared a gallery of selected works available in the online shop.

Original artworks are available as limited collectible editions – hand-signed pigment prints, produced in only 20 copies and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Each work was created with calm interiors in mind. Both the physical ones, within your space, as well as those that exist metaphorically. To accompany moments of stillness, pause, and reflection, in a supportive connection with nature.

They are my personal interpretation of the exhibition’s central theme – freedom.

Abundance of a Moment is freedom found in stillness. In letting go of control and expectations that we often place upon ourselves and others.
Hope and Freedom expresses freedom through the joy of creation, unrestricted by rules or expectations.
TheLight of Slow Freedom tells a story of the freedom to choose one’s own path, direction, and pace. The symbol of the snail becomes a metaphor for conscious living in harmony with oneself.

There are many definitions of freedom, and the theme itself remains open and expansive.
Therefore … what does freedom mean to you?

[You can read more in the descriptions of each individual work — links below.]

Furthermore, these photographs are also available as posters and canvas prints in minimalist frames, offering different ways to invite art into your space.

Posters and Canvases

The Virtual Reality Exhibition

An important part of the project was the Virtual Reality exhibition, which allowed audiences from around the world to engage with the artworks. This form of display was one of the residency’s key tasks and also a fascinating experience in working with new technologies.

Take a Virtual Journey!

Experience the digital copy of the exhibition from anywhere in the world!

In Conclusion

This project was an intense, enriching, and very important experience for me – artistically, curatorially, and personally. I am grateful to everyone involved in the residency and exhibition, as well as to those who took the time to see the works – in person or virtually.

For me is not the end, but rather the next, important stage.

The world is where you choose to stop.

PS If You Want to Revisit Previous Posts

If this is your first time reading this post or if you’d like to revisit the residency and exhibition process, I invite you to read the previous articles:

May these moments of engaging with art bring you calm, reflection, and inspiration.

The post Summary of the “Rapid Accelerator” Residency and the FREEDOM International Exhibition appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

Art Exhibition in Virtual Reality – FREEDOM – as part of the Residency Program

Joanna — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 16:34:03 +0000

The Visual Artist’s/Curator’s Rapid Accelerator – Residency. Stockholm 2025 is slowly coming to an end. The project concludes with two exhibitions – one in physical space and one in Virtual Reality: VR Art Exhibition – and we are still moving forward with the same energy and curiosity.

For everyone who could not travel to Stockholm in person, the virtual exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience the artworks from anywhere in the world.

FREEDOM

The physical exhibition took place at Royal Blue VA Gallery, LM Ericsson Väg 1, Stockholm, from 5–12 December 2025.
The Virtual Reality exhibition remains open until 31 December 2025.

Project Curator:

Magdalena Nilsson

Exhibition Curators:

Barbara Bielecka-Woźniczko | Kamila Krzyżaniak | Magdalena Melissourgaki | Joanna Musiał-Janicka

Artists of the FREEDOM Exhibition:

Partners:

Art Exhibitions in Stockholm, Charity Art Expo, Charity Art Gallery, DESIGNER magazine, HIQU Art&Foto Rynek, Luxury Splash of Art, Museum El Greco, PADIC.

VR Exhibition as the Residency Finale

Both exhibitions — the physical and the virtual — mark the finale of the Visual Artist’s/Curator’s Rapid Accelerator – Residency. Stockholm 2025.

The VR exhibition was one of the key tasks of the program, accompanied by a series of international networking meetings, creative sessions, and expert-led activities: from grant writing and global project funding to insights into the contemporary art market, press relations, and exhibitions in new technologies.

It has been an intense and beautiful time.
I wrote more about the residency itself here: [link].

Take a Virtual Journey!

Experience the digital copy of the exhibition from anywhere in the world!

Why Visit the VR Art Exhibition?

I warmly invite you — not only because my artworks are part of the show, but because I deeply believe in the emotional and physical impact that art has on our well-being. It supports both the mind and the body.

Psychological Benefits of Experiencing Art

1. Stress reduction
Viewing art can lower cortisol levels. Calm, nature-inspired imagery acts like a micro-moment of rest for the nervous system.

2. Improved mood
Art activates brain areas responsible for pleasure, motivation, and emotional uplift.

3. Mindfulness and inner quiet
Focusing on a single frame slows down racing thoughts. It offers a short, grounding “here and now.”

4. Deeper self-awareness
Art encourages gentle reflection and a subtle dialogue with one’s emotions.

5. Inspiration and creativity
Aesthetic experiences stimulate imagination and help open new perspectives — even in everyday decisions.

6. Relief in moments of overload
Art creates a sense of space and lightness, especially after long, intense days.

Physical Benefits of Experiencing Art

1. Slower heart rate and calmer breathing
Serene visual stimuli help regulate breathing and ease nervous system tension.

2. Reduced muscle tension
Emotional relief translates into the body, enabling muscles to relax and promoting regeneration.

3. Immune support
Relaxation boosts the natural responses of the immune system.

4. Better sleep quality
Surrounding yourself with calming art supports the natural circadian rhythm.

5. Lower blood pressure
Studies show that even 10 minutes with art can work like a short mindfulness session.

Have I convinced you?

I certainly hope so — and I warmly invite you to experience the exhibition.
The VR Art Exhibition is available until 31 December 2025.

The world is where you choose to stop

Art creates a space of meeting – as we know – with your own breath, with emotion, with what feels most alive within you.
If you wish to pause for a little longer, I warmly invite you to explore the works from the “Freedom” exhibition in my gallery.

Have z nice yourney!

/ Joanna

The post Art Exhibition in Virtual Reality – FREEDOM – as part of the Residency Program appeared first on musialjanicka.art.

News Archives - musialjanicka.art

Inne Światy – Photography Exhibition in Wrocław

Przestrzeń w Podwórzu – a Unique Open -Air Photography Gallery

Three Recognised Photographs by Joanna Musiał-Janicka

The World Is Where You Choose To Stop – Recognition for a Photo Slideshow in Rzeszów

“The World Is Where You Choose To Stop”

Rzeszów – More Than Just a Competition

“2025 Through the Lenses of Polish Women Photographers” – Also in the Book

The Exhibition Continues Its Journey

A small record of the journey

Opening of the exhibition “THERE IS ANOTHER WORLD TOO” in Warsaw

Curatorial Statement of exhibition “THERE IS ANOTHER WORLD TOO”

Discover the Photography of Exhibition

Mindfulness (by The Tree) VR Experience

MINDFULNESS (by The Tree)

Exhibition Curator:

Artist of the Mindfulness (by The Tree) Exhibition:

Mindfulness (by The Tree) VR Experience

Media Partners:

VR Exhibition

Take a Virtual Journey!

Exhibition opening Mindfulness (by the Tree) in Nysa

Mindfulness in Nature: Finding Inspiration in a Single Tree

Exhibition opening Mindfulness (by the Tree) in Nysa in numbers

Thank You to Our Media Patrons for Supporting “Mindfulness by the Tree”

Exhibition Mindfulness (By the Tree)

What does your world look like when you stop rushing?Will you allow a single flower immersed in shimmering sunlight to invite you to return often to where it has its roots?

Why not the whole park? Why not another tree, but this particular spindle tree?

About the Works – Mindfulness (By the Tree)

My New Project – part II

Highlighting light with hand embroidery

The world is where you choose to stop.

I present my New Project, which I have named: Embroidered Light

My New Project

How would your perception of this photograph change if I told you that I simply photographed… light?

Light is associated only with positive meaning.

Light is goodness, truth, faith, hope, and wonder.

…and this is exactly the light I want to highlight in my project.

Summary of the “Rapid Accelerator” Residency and the FREEDOM International Exhibition

The Opening and Live Experience

Recognition and Certificates

My Works at the FREEDOM International Exhibition

Gallery of Works Available in the Shop

Posters and Canvases

The Virtual Reality Exhibition

Take a Virtual Journey!

In Conclusion

The world is where you choose to stop.

PS If You Want to Revisit Previous Posts

Art Exhibition in Virtual Reality – FREEDOM – as part of the Residency Program

FREEDOM

Project Curator:

Exhibition Curators:

Artists of the FREEDOM Exhibition:

Partners:

VR Exhibition as the Residency Finale

Take a Virtual Journey!

Why Visit the VR Art Exhibition?

Psychological Benefits of Experiencing Art

Physical Benefits of Experiencing Art

Have I convinced you?

The world is where you choose to stop

What does your world look like when you stop rushing?
Will you allow a single flower immersed in shimmering sunlight to invite you to return often to where it has its roots?