ART & CULTURE: International Collection of Contemporary Art 5th Edition

The 5th edition of the Centre for Contemporary Art's International Art Collection will feature works from over 90 artists, including over 30 from abroad, incorporating different media such as painting, sculpture, photography, drawing, installations, video, recordings of art happenings and public projects. The exhibition will provide a sort of retrospective for the Centre, which has accumulated one of the best collections of modern art in Poland over its 20 years, reflecting the metamorphosis of the country through art. The works presented span the era from the early 1960s until the present decade, and feature both prominent Polish artists as well as those they drew inspiration from. The exhibition opens at the end of March and runs through the 6th of September.

when - Until 6th September
where - Centre for Contemporary Art, Al. Ujazdowskie 6
more info - click here

ART & CULTURE: Światłosłowa

Young desingers Karol Murlak and Magda Czapiewskia have been busy working with Polish poet Andrzej Sosnowski in turning a grey, grim concrete quay on the Vistula River into an inspiring literary art show.

Using phosphorus emulsion, the team have painted large scale letters with the famous poet's prose. Unnoticeable by day, the words of Sosnowski will provide a striking light display at night. Accompanying the installation will also be a series of prints made with various paints that react to light, providing a wonderful backdrop to lazy summer evening walks along the river.

when - Opening on Friday 7 August 2009 - from 9pm to midnight. Thereafter, 8th-16th, 21st-23rd and 28th-30th August.
where - Between Śląsko-Dąbrowski bridge and Gdańsk bridge
more info - click here

JAZZ FESTIVAL: 15th International Jazz At The Old Town Square Festival

One of the most popular and biggest open air jazz festivals in Poland, the 15th International Jazz in the Old Town Square Festival brings together some of the finest performers and musicians jazz has to offer. Warsaw's beautiful Old Town Square hosts between three and four thousand people of all ages who gather to enjoy a summer evening of fine jazz.

when - every Saturday in August at 7pm until the end of the month
where - Warsaw's Old Town Square
more info - click here

PHOTOGRAPHY: MACIEJ HERMAN

ŚWIATŁOCIENIE SNU

when - until 20 August. Gallery opening times: Tues-Fri 11-19, Sat-Sun 12-17
where - ul. Krzywe Koło 2/4, 00-270 Warsaw
more info - click here

CONCERT: Madonna

Madonna: the one-woman pop machine that needs no introduction. Ironically, Madonna's performance in Warsaw will take place on the same day the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - and Catholic leaders in Poland are not happy. Particularly as Madonna likes to begin her performances by being raised onto a giant cross, not to mention the countless ways in which she has managed to offend the church over her entire career. Considering the fact that Poland is an extremely devout nation, the protests continue and whether this concert will actually take place is currently uncertain. However, if protests fall through and the queen prevails, expect a mad night of lights, dancing, and music, starting off with trance legend Paul Oakenfold. Tickets 220 - 1100 zloty.

when - 15th August
where - Bemowo Airport, ul. Powstańców Śląskich
more info - click here

CONCERT: Primal Scream

Controversial rock heroes Primal Scream have been making experimental alternative rock for over twenty years. Hailing from the land of haggis and bagpipes (that's Scotland, by the way), Primal Scream's members have had associations with such bands as The Jesus & Mary Chain, My Bloody Valentine, and the Stone Roses. You'll surely recognize their tunes, as many have been featured in such films as Trainspotting and Human Traffic. Tickets 100-120 złoty.

when - 16th August
where - Stodoła, ul. Batorego 10
more info - click here

CONCERT: Andrea Bocelli

According to Celine Dion, "If God had a singing voice, it would sound much like Andrea Bocelli". And indeed the passionate Italian has swooned many a listener with his voice whether it be singing opera classics or romantic popular songs. Performing only a handful of concerts a year, it's a real treat that the visually-impaired vocal virtuoso chose Warsaw as one of his stops in 2009. Click the info link before for ticket information.

when - 29th August
where - Stadion Gwardii, ul. Racławicka 132
more info - click here