Leon Michalski began his studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw from 1934 to 1939, under the studio of Mr. Kotarbiski, and graduated in 1946. From 1948, he exhibited individually at the Club of Young Artists and Scientists in Warsaw, then regularly in 1960, 1968, 1977 and 1986, in addition to numerous group exhibitions in Poland and abroad.
He began teaching in 1973 and served as vice-rector of the university between 1962 and 1965, training several generations of artists. Michalski also co-founded Polychromes in Warsaw's Old Town and Lublin, and in 1955 he designed the ceiling of the Hotel Bristol in Warsaw.
His work reflects the tradition of Polish colorism, with particular ties to the Paris Committee and the artist J. Le Cybisa. Michalski's paintings and graphics are included in prestigious collections, including the National Museums of Warsaw, Kraków, and Kielce, as well as the Art Museum in Łódź, the Museum of Mazovia in Płock, and the Museum of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn.
