The idea for the Kazimierz Kutz Award arose from the conviction that he and his work were exceptionally significant. Kazimierz Kutz was a rare artist whose work and social engagement encompass worlds as diverse as art, politics, and the fate of Silesia.

The Kazimierz Kutz Award was established in 2020 on the initiative of Marcin Krupa, Mayor of Katowice, Ryszard Koziołek, Rector of the University of Silesia, and Robert Talarczyk, Director of the Silesian Theatre.

The award was presented for the first time on 16, February, 2021 – Kutz's birthday – on the Main Stage of the Silesian Theatre in Katowice.

Kazimierz Kutz was a graduate of the Lodz Film School, and in 2018 he was awarded the title of Doctor Honoris Causa by our School.

This year's award was also presented on 16, February during a gala at the Silesian Theatre. The winner was Wojciech Smarzowski, a graduate of our Cinematography and Television Production Department.

The laudation was prepared by Robert Talarczyk:

"The Kazimierz Kutz Award goes to a man who isn't afraid to touch wounds and scratch them open. Who has proven that cinema can be the conscience of a community. Who, through his attitude, demonstrates that being an artist isn't a profession—it's a responsibility. For his uncompromising nature. For his courage in breaking taboos. For his consistency in developing his own language. For not letting us sleep soundly. For forcing us to look, even when we'd rather look away."

Complete text of the laudation: nagrodakutza.pl/wojciech-smarzowski

Congratulations for the director!