Magdalena Pela

Magdalena Pela (born 1989) is an assistant professor at the Faculty of Painting, Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk. A graduate of both the Faculty of Painting and Inter-Faculty Environmental Doctoral Studies at her alma mater, she also holds a degree in Cultural Studies from the Faculty of Philology at the University of Gdańsk. Her practice bridges visual art, participatory projects, and social engagement.

• Education: Doctor of Fine Arts (2022), Cultural Studies (University of Gdańsk), Environmental Doctoral Studies (Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk)

Pela’s research and creative work focuses on painting, public art, and the intersection of visual expression with social dynamics. Her notable project Stół Dobrych Słów (Good Words Table) explores collective storytelling and empathy through participatory art. She has held solo exhibitions at institutions such as the Gdańsk City Gallery and the European Solidarity Centre.

Her awards include the Audience Award for Young Creators of Culture of the City of Gdańsk (2024), the Rector’s Award (2022), and multiple national/international painting competition wins and nominations. Pela’s artworks are housed in the permanent collections of the National Museum in Gdańsk, European Solidarity Centre, and NOMUS Art Museum.

• Selected Awards:
  • Audience Award for Young Creators of Culture (2024)
  • Rector’s 3rd Degree Award (2022)
  • Leon Wyczółkowski National Painting Competition Winner (2018, 2015)