A celebrated figure in the Flint community, Paul Rozycki is renowned not only as a political analyst and educator but also as an accomplished photographer. His work, currently showcased at Mott Community College's Fine Arts Gallery, reflects his lifelong passion for photography and its evolution from black-and-white darkroom techniques to the digital era. Rozycki’s images delve into the interplay of light, shape, and form, capturing both the tangible world and the human condition. Over decades, he has balanced his career as a professor with his artistic pursuits, leaving a lasting impact on both academia and the arts.

Rozycki’s photographic journey began in his youth and evolved alongside his professional life as a teacher and political commentator. Despite retiring from teaching in 2011, he continues to contribute to MCC and remains active in local politics. His recent exhibition features reflections on events and activities in the Flint area, blending realistic interpretations with abstract explorations. The display invites viewers to engage with his unique perspective on the world around him.

The Intersection of Light and Vision

In this section, we explore how Paul Rozycki uses light as a medium to convey meaning and emotion in his photography. For decades, his work has focused on the relationship between light, shape, and form, creating images that transcend mere documentation. Through abstraction and interpretation, Rozycki transforms ordinary objects into profound visual statements, inviting viewers to see the world through his lens.

From his early days experimenting with black-and-white film to embracing digital technology, Rozycki’s approach to photography has consistently emphasized the power of light. His ability to highlight the essence of his subjects stems from years of practice and observation. In the current exhibition, several pieces reflect his fascination with the interplay of color and form. Others take a more abstract route, removing objects from their familiar contexts to evoke deeper emotional responses. This duality showcases his versatility as an artist and his commitment to exploring new dimensions of visual storytelling.

A Legacy of Dual Passions

Beyond his artistic endeavors, Paul Rozycki’s career as an educator and political analyst has shaped his worldview and informed his creative process. Teaching political science at Mott Community College for over four decades, he instilled in countless students a passion for civic engagement. Simultaneously, his involvement in journalism and media analysis provided opportunities to observe and interpret the complexities of modern society, enriching his photographic work.

Rozycki’s dual passions for education and art are deeply intertwined. As a professor, he encouraged critical thinking and leadership skills, while as a photographer, he explored themes of identity, environment, and social change. His retirement from teaching in 2011 did not signal the end of his contributions; instead, it allowed him to focus more fully on his artistic pursuits. The exhibition at MCC exemplifies this fusion of experiences, offering insights into both the local community and the universal human experience. By combining his expertise in politics with his artistic vision, Rozycki creates a body of work that resonates on multiple levels, inspiring reflection and dialogue among viewers.