FUEL & FEATHERS. Artistic performance by the Slavs & Tatars collective

What is it about?

“Bajura i pióra” is a multidisciplinary performative event at the intersection of art, mythology and social criticism. The project, prepared by the Slavs and Tatars collective and curator Michal Grzegorzek, explores the potential of fire – not as a tool of destruction, but as a creative, queer and transformative force. For several October days at the Biedermann Factory, there will be an installation by Slavs and Tatars, stylized as a gas station, where instead of an eagle in the logo, the Simurgh – a mythical, fiery bird known from Central Asian and Middle Eastern traditions, embodying the power of multiplicity, fluid identity and imagination – burns. In this space, artists from different parts of the world will attempt to tell themselves beyond imposed identities. The event’s program includes evenings of performances, concerts, dance demonstrations and communal ceremonies that are united by fire – a symbol of transformation, ecstasy and rebirth.

By whom?

Slavs and Tatars – an art collective that explores the cultures of Eurasia through exhibitions, performances, lectures and publications. Their projects are full of humor, erudition and defiance towards dominant narratives.

Michał Grzegorzek – curator of exhibitions and author of texts on contemporary art. He is interested in practices at the intersection of visual and performing arts and experimental exhibition formats.

The event will also feature invited performers, musicians, designers, and artists, like Jacqueline Sobiszewski — creator of emotive lightscapes well known in theatrical productions, Astrit Ismaili — an artist who combines movement, voice, and body-worn instruments, Slikback — a master of club sounds rooted in African tradition, Selin Davasse — creator of iconic performances, Kamil Wesołowski — an artist connected to Łódź who works at the intersection of visual arts, performance, and fashion, as well as Alesia Maisei and Katarzyna Salinger — performers and pole dance artists, Kim Khan – sound artist and multi-instrumentalist.

We invite you to have a look at the curatorial essay.

Program

04 October (Saturday)

The opening evening features a series of performances combining Jacqueline Sobiszewski’s light performance with Astrit Ismaili’s act, both challenging and transforming identity politics, alongside Slickback’s energetic, bass-driven live act that fuses African sound traditions with futuristic club vibes.

October 5 (Sunday)

Details of the event will be announced soon!

October 10 (Friday)

A surreal night of embodied stories — She-Pigeon by Selin Davasse is a physical metamorphosis of language and identity, while Kamil Wesołowski’s artistic nail salon is a space where nails become a weapon, a spell, and a manifesto — at the intersection of folk tradition and fashion “slay.”

October 11 (Saturday)

An evening of pole dance, where Alesia Maisei and Catherine Salinger invite you to an experience in which physical exertion and intimacy become a form of expression of emotion and inner tenderness. Kim Khan’s concert is a seamless blend of cultural heritage and sonic transcendence.

Who is it for?

For those open to new forms of artistic expression, seeking art that is sensual, engaged, and unconventional. For those who want to immerse themselves in ritual, sound, and performance, while also experiencing community in a space free from rigid categories of gender, origin, or identity. The event is recommended for people aged 16 and over.

Why is it worth it?

Because this event challenges norms and sparks the imagination. Because instead of sticking on more labels, it lets them burn — and from the ashes, something new is created. Because “Bajura i pióra” offers a rare chance to meet artists who speak not just about identity, but from within it — using the language of fire, gesture, and excess. Because in a world that divides us, this project invites us to be together — strangely, joyfully, and fiercely burning.

Partners:

The Foundation for Polish-German Cooperation

Availability:

The Bierdermann Factory building has architectural barriers: stairs lead to the exhibition space. A passenger-cargo elevator is available upon prior arrangement. There are no wheelchair-accessible restrooms.

Nearby, there are tram and bus stops: Kilińskiego-Północna, Kilińskiego-Pomorska, and Północna-Kilińskiego.