Fotofestiwal at Biedermann’s Palace — The heart of the anniversary edition
A partnership with the University of Lodz opens a historic landmark to photography and cultural events during the 25th Fotofestiwal.
The Biedermann’s Palace — the historic seat of the University of Lodz at 1/5 Franciszkańska Street — will become the Main Festival Center of the 25th edition of Fotofestiwal, taking place from 18 to 28 June 2026. This collaboration brings together a prestigious academic institution, an exceptional architectural landmark, and one of the most important photography festivals in Central Europe.
The Biedermann’s Palace
The Alfred Biedermann Palace and Park Complex is one of Łódź’s finest historical landmarks and the most prestigious venue of the University of Łódź. It is a truly unique place on the university map, deeply connected to history, culture, the heritage of Łódź, and the popularization of science.
Until 1945, the estate belonged to a prominent family of industrialists of German origin. Since the beginning of the 21st century, it has served as a hub for interdisciplinary cultural projects, including exhibitions, meetings, lectures, seminars, conferences, and the university’s broad outreach initiatives. It also houses interdepartmental units, research centers, and artistic groups. The university’s art gallery, “Wozownia 1/5,” is located in the former carriage house and hosts temporary exhibitions.
Culture holds a special place at the University of Łódź. That is why the Alfred Biedermann Palace—the headquarters of the UL Event and Conference Center—is a space where tradition meets culture and science. Built at the beginning of the 20th century by Łódź factory owners, today it is a vibrant venue hosting scientific and artistic events.
Biedermann’s Palace as Festival Center
The University of Lodz, custodian of Biedermann’s Palace, will make the entire building available for the anniversary edition of Fotofestiwal — from the basement to the attic. The palace will host major exhibitions, premieres, discussions, and accompanying events. Its historic garden will become the festival’s main gathering place and the setting for evening events and celebrations.
The program of the 25th edition explores photography as a tool for understanding the world and building community in the face of democratic crises, climate disasters, and the revolution of artificial intelligence. More than 30 exhibitions and 50 events will take place throughout the the city, attracting an international audience.
Exhibitions Throughout the Palace
Attic | Augustin Rebetez: Vitamin
This multimedia installation by the Swiss artist Augustin Rebetez, combines film, animation, photography, and drawing. Rooted in the tradition of Art Brut, the work of the recipient of the Grand Prix Images Vevey and Foam Talent awards has been presented at biennials in Sydney, Daegu, and Shenzhen. In Lodz, Rebetez will unveil a dreamlike universe populated by peculiar creatures and unexpected narratives.
Ground Floor | The Photobook Space
Four exhibitions dedicated to photographic publishing will be presented here, including the Photographic Publication of the Year Award (established in 2013) and the international Dummy Award (organized in collaboration with the PhotoBookMuseum in Cologne). The program will also feature presentations of contemporary photobook collections from Greece (Zoetrope Athens / Photometria Festival) and Taiwan (Middle Art Gallery / Taiwan Ministry of Culture).
Lower Level | Photosophical approaches and AI
Two exhibitions dedicated to Andrzej Różycki, whose archive is cared for by the University of Lodz, will be presented, including a retrospective preview ahead of a major exhibition at the Museum of Art in Lodz in 2027.
Alongside it, visitors will encounter Marcin Sudziński’s project Black Light. Strokes of Time (curated by Karol Jóźwiak), a “Photosophical” reflection on images not made by human hands. The project combines archaic photographic techniques, beekeeping practices, and references to the symbolism of the Shroud of Turin.
In the basement, Alisa Martynova’s exhibition COSMOGONIE will explore the relationship between humans and machines in the age of AI. Inspired by Donna Haraway’s Cyborg Manifesto, the artist employs algorithms to revive previously rejected photographs and create a visual record of what she calls “machine dreams.”
A Shared Mission
The partnership between Fotofestiwal and the University of Lodz reflects the shared mission of both institutions: fostering an open space for dialogue between academia, art, and society. Opening Biedermann’s Palace — one of Lodz’s most beautiful historic buildings — enriches the festival programme with a unique historical and architectural context, creating an inspiring environment for artistic exchange and critical reflection.
Get to know more on the events taking placce at the Biedermann’s Palace HERE
Get to know more on the Biedermann’s Palace HERE
