D-Biz: Culture nurtured at Polish Art Center

Hamtramck's Polish Art Center is a destination for Polish residents all over the Detroit metro area and beyond.

For more than 30 years, Joan and Raymond Bittner have run the shop, which they bought in 1974 from Joseph Kalenkiewicz, a Polish immigrant who opened it in 1958.

The charming storefront displays beautiful stoneware, a well-curated selection of amber jewelry, artfully carved wooden plates and boxes, books, magazines and cards along with plenty of Eagle paraphernalia.

Merchandise is also available on the shop's comprehensive web site, but visiting is best since a member of the Bittner crew -- including children Kathleen, Michelle and Steven -- is almost always on hand to answer a question about a tradition or tell a story, like the one about the White House calling to order a coloring book.

A recent expansion added space for cultural programming such as Polish language classes, lectures and book signings.

Both Joan and Raymond are heavily involved in the city in which they live and work. "Hamtramck keeps evolving," she says. "It's always been a city that bounces back."

The Polish Art Center is at 9539 Joseph Campau. Call the store at 313-874-2242.

Source: Joan Bittner, Polish Art Center
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh