The Artistic Journey of Olaf Hanel: Explore 'There and Back Again' Exhibition

This exhibition showcases the multifaceted work of Prague-born artist Olaf Hanel, exploring his career across official, underground, and exile art scenes. It highlights his land-art activities, performances, and diverse artistic mediums including drawings, wire sculptures, and acrylic paintings.

Opening on Human Rights Day, December 10th, the Kampa Museum presents "Olaf Hanel: There and Back Again," an exhibition celebrating an artist whose career spanned official, underground, and exile art communities. Born in Prague in 1943, Hanel's artistic journey began with early connections to the avant-garde, evolving through humorous cartoons and land-art installations. His activities, such as the "Tribute to the Bright Stars" (1972) and "patriotic trips," deeply engaged with nature, myth, and cultural traditions. Following emigration to Canada in 1979, Hanel continued his artistic practice, which included "bubble drawings" and intricate wire antiplastics, some reaching nearly five meters in height. His work often explores concepts of "the void," using materials like metal, plexiglass, and everyday objects to construct columns linking heaven and earth. Influenced by astronomical themes and geometric patterns, his later works, like the "Great Series" (1997-1998), reflect cosmic events and poetic references, showcasing a lifelong dedication to art that is both personal and universally resonant.