Peter Barelkowski started experimenting with painting in the 70’s and in 1975 

he established his first studio. 

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His art education began with an MA from the University of Poznan and continued at 

Goldsmith College (Poznan, Poland), Ontario College of Art in Toronto (1985 – 1988) and less formally - in London, England ( Camden Arts Centre ) and Norway, where he was street performing for tourists during the late 70's. 

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His paintings are in private collections in Europe, USA and Canada. His studio is currently located in Toronto, Ontario (Canada). 

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“In his recent body of work, Peter Barelkowski is exploring the human experience 

of loneliness and isolation. Creating a paradox between his joyful colours and darker 

subject matter, his paintings attempt to play with our ideas around sadness. As a form of subtle escapism, the figures in his paintings are depicted in a one dimensional, cartoonish style - with almost grotesque undertones. By doing so, Barelkowski hopes to create the feel of another world. One that can be seen as fantastic, or merely underwater or underground - all places that exude the feel of a lost and isolated environment”. 

( From artist statement ) 

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“Adapting a visual language of grotesque and satire, Barelkowski effectively confronts 

the rationalism of historical perspective with the absurdity of political powers that 

repeatedly throws humanity into the haunting dance macabre of war and annihilation. Although, deriving from specific historical events, Barelkowski’s works convey a universal message, uncomfortably actual when applied to contemporary history”. 

( Anna Stanisz, Assistant Curator of Education at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection )