The "Szopa" [Atelier]

The heart of Pan Miś's Planet: explore the story and soul of Michał Walczyk's unique creative sanctuary.

Atelier of Pan Miś (Michał Walczyk)
```

The Essence of the Szopa

More than just a backyard shed, the "Szopa" is Michał Walczyk's atelier, his "imagination laboratory," and "dream manufactory." It stands as the creative core, a bastion of privacy, and the undisputed capital of "Pan Miś's Planet."

A Realm of Creative Autonomy

The Szopa provides Michał sanctuary, allowing him to create in "complete detachment from the art world." As an artist who doesn't track time or even days of the week, he works diligently here daily, finding his own rhythm "removed from the dictate of the calendar and the daily chase of the clock." This freedom is vital to his boundless creativity.

An Organized Universe

Far from chaotic, the Szopa is thoughtfully organized to facilitate the artistic process. It features distinct thematic zones, systems for displaying finished works, and dedicated workspaces. Ergonomics, easy access to materials, artwork storage, and on-site documentation are all considered within its walls.

Where Visions Take Form

It is within the Szopa that Michał gives physical form to his visions, many born directly from his dreams. It's also his laboratory for experimenting with diverse formats, unique techniques, and the integration of "found objects"—scraps and discarded items given new life in the spirit of Art Brut.

The Story of the Szopa

The Szopa's history mirrors Michał's artistic development and his personal quest for a space of his own.

The First Szopa (Circa 2010–2015)

Built between 2010 and 2015, the original Szopa emerged after Michał discovered pyrography and began working intensely with wood. Funded by his parents as a summer house near the family home, it quickly became his private workshop and sanctuary, coinciding roughly with his brother Maciej leaving for university.

In these early years, Michał relied on found materials: wood scraps, unused planks, and discarded pieces. His practice of painting on both sides of random boards stemmed from practicality and economy, as he often handed works directly to people, not considering how they might be displayed.

Evolution Towards a Museum: "Szopa Number Two"

Witnessing Michał's unwavering passion and productivity, his parents later funded a second shed. Known as "Szopa number two" or the "exhibition szopa," this space is dedicated solely to showcasing his art, acting as a personal, local museum.

Establishing the official "Pan Miś Museum" within Szopa number two remains one of Michał's core ambitions. (Explore Szopa 2 Expo - →

A Symbol of Authenticity

The Szopa's vital role in Michał's Art Brut authenticity was highlighted during the "Talent, Passion, Intuition" exhibition at the Silesian Museum in Katowice (2025). (Visit Exhibition recap) → Curator Maciej Walczyk aimed to recreate the "Szopa 2" environment within the museum space. After visiting the actual Szopa twice, the museum curator agreed, underscoring the profound significance of this creative haven.

Looking ahead, Maciej plans to create a "Pan Miś Szopa in VR," allowing virtual visitors to explore the space and better appreciate the two-sided and multi-sided works ("Światowidy") born within it. (Visit 3D Gallery -) →