KulturDocs

The series combines humor and insight, focusing on the unique talents, skills, and reflections of its protagonists. Each episode provides an opportunity to meet inspiring figures such as musician Mikołaj Trzaska, performer Betty Q, and young artists Marcella Szabłowska and Ezra Wojakowski, while delving into the complex Polish-Jewish relationships.

In addition to the series, the project includes audience engagements both online and in-person. These events will create a platform for exchanging ideas and views, extending the dialogue initiated in the series. KulturDocs aims to challenge entrenched opinions and stereotypes by showcasing the vibrant and thriving Jewish art scene in Poland.

Art, Identity, and Dialogue

🎞️ Discover the Stories of Kultur Docs

Dive into KulturDocs, a three-part documentary series exploring contemporary Jewish art in Poland, hosted by Canadian-Jewish creator Michael Rubenfeld. Featuring talents like musician Mikołaj Trzaska, performer Betty Q, and young visionaries Marcella Szabłowska and Ezra Wojakowski, the series unravels the intricate dynamics of Polish-Jewish identity today. ✡️

💡 Special Conversation
Join FestivALT co-directors Michael and Lena Rubenfeld for insights into the series and the evolving role of Jewish artists in a shifting cultural and political landscape.

📅 Date: December 10th

🕗 Time: 7:30 PM AEDT \ 9:30 AM CET (Poland)

🔗 Where: Online via Zoom

🎫 Free with registration.

Organizers: Australian Society of Polish Jews and FestivALT
Partners: Ashkenaz Festival Toronto, Asylum Arts NYC, Judisk Kronika, Cape Town Holocaust & Genocide Centre.

register here

Betty Q

Jews, art and bureslque!

Join us for the next Kultur Docs film, spotlighting the trailblazing burlesque artist Betty Q. This moving documentary explores her artistry and contemporary Jewish life in post-Holocaust Poland.

📅 Date: December 4th
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM CET (Stockholm/Warsaw)
🔗 Where: Online via Zoom

After the screening, participate in a Q&A with Betty Q and the creators, gaining insights into art, identity, and resilience.

🎫 Free event, registration required: Register here

register here

Jazz & Jewishness | Mikołaj Trzaska

How does Jewish identity influence an artist’s life and work? In this compelling KulturDocs film, renowned jazz musician Mikołaj Trzaska opens up in a candid conversation with director Michael Rubenfeld.
Trzaska delves into the struggles of carrying the weight of Jewish heritage, the fear of confronting history, and the journey to transform trauma into light through art. A deeply personal and universal story about identity, creativity, and resilience.
📅 Date: December 17th
🕕 Time:8:00 PM Poland time / 2:00 PM Toronto time
🔗 Where: Online via Zoom
🎫 Free, but required
Organizers: Ashkenaz Festival, Asylum Arts NYC, FestivALT
Partners: Australian Society of Polish Jews and their descendants in Melbourne, Judisk Kronika, Paideia Europe Cape Town Holocaust & Genocide Centre, Gmina Wyznaniowa Żydowska w Gdańsku

Register here
Financing

Funded by the state budget as part of the "Public Diplomacy 2024" competition by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland.sa

Funding amount: 90 000 PLN

Partners