On 15 January 2026, the Institute of Polish Studies and Journalism at the University of Rzeszów hosted a special event marking the 40th anniversary of the artistic and research career of dr hab. Wojciech Birek, prof. UR. The celebration went beyond a traditional academic ceremony, bringing together scholarly reflection, artistic practice, and a warm tribute to one of the most influential comics researchers and creators in Poland.

The event was opened by dr hab. Arkadiusz Luboń, prof. UR, and prof. dr hab. Jolanta Pasterska, who highlighted Professor Birek’s unique role as a scholar working at the intersection of theory and artistic practice, as well as his position as a mentor and a key figure in the Polish comics studies community.

A central moment of the programme was a guest lecture by dr Jakub Jankowski (University of Warsaw). His presentation, The Shape of the Comic Speech Bubble According to Wojciech Birek, offered an insightful look at Professor Birek’s methodological approach and his lasting impact on contemporary comics research.

The celebration continued with personal reflections and stories shared by colleagues, students, and Professor Birek’s wife, dr hab. Magdalena Rabizo-Birek, prof. UR, adding a more personal tone to the event.

The anniversary concluded with the opening of the exhibition Faces and Panels at the Gallery on the Mezzanine, accompanied by Professor Birek’s own commentary.