Artists Caught Behind the Iron Curtain

April 15 – May 29, 2023

April 15 - May 29, 2023

Petrik Gallery

In 1964, on his first visit to Prague, Lee Freeman met the artist Jiří Mrázek and through this friendship began a life-long interest and passion for collecting contemporary Czech art. During this period it was very difficult, and often forbidden, for artists to show unsanctioned work. Freeman assisted these artists by transporting their work to the USA where he would sell them and send the proceeds back to Czechoslovakia along with paint and other art supplies unavailable to them.

Artists Caught Behind the Iron Curtain highlights many of the superb artists from the communist period. The exhibit shows the varied work and tells the stories of the artists who struggled to express their talent, even risking imprisonment, at a time when socialist realism was the only government-sanctioned approach to art.

Sponsored by: BetterLife, Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs, Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation and the City of Cedar Rapids Hotel-Motel Tax.

Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation logo

4 Comments. Leave new

  • Virginia dePintor
    April 22, 2023 10:02 AM

    Hello, I live in Chicago and am a member of the NCSML and wonder if a brochure or pamphlet was published in conjunction with this exhibit? [Artists caught behind the Iron Curtain]
    I am interested in purchasing such booklet or announcement.. Wish I could see the work in person…….
    Thank You,
    Virginia dePIntor

    Reply
  • Magda Schay
    May 11, 2023 12:25 PM

    I am Magda (Polesná) Schay of Oregon. Last year I donated some kroj items and have other Czechoslovak items and paintings that may be of interest to the museum. I have misplaced the contact info/person. I am a granddaughter of Marie Probazníková and most of these items were hers.
    or 541-588-0649

    Reply

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