Ruins as a symbol of teh past and the future. The exhibition of the latest set of photographs by Josef Koudelka, entitled Ruins, presents large-format shots of ancient ruins from the Mediterranean region. The author of the picture donated it to the Museum of Applied Arts in Prague so that the work would be taken care of even after his death. “I photographed everything I wanted to. Now I want to put it in order,” he says of organizing his archive.
A total of 171 works can be seen in the four halls of the Museum of Art and Industry until March 30 of next year. Four dozen of them were also included in the book of the same name, Ruins. Josef Koudelka captured the remains of ancient temples, theaters, necropolises and marketplaces in images created with a panoramic camera. Among other things,it draws attention to the fact that one day everything around us will be ruins.Dimensional palaces and temples are simultaneously occurring a relic of the former power ambitions of the rulers and the hard work of ordinary people.
Koudelka worked on the set between 1991 and 2017. He visited more than two hundred archaeological sites in Italy, Croatia, Lebanon, Egypt or Albania. He usually traveled alone and took pictures of landscapes without people, but he said he never felt lonely. The currently exhibited work comes from the time when Koudelka moved away from figurative images.
The eighty-six-year-old artist became famous mainly for his photographs of the invasion of Czechoslovakia by the Warsaw pact troops in August 1968. In order to protect him, they were circulated abroad with the claim that the author was PP – prague Photographer. In 1970 he emigrated to Great Britain, later resettled in France and obtained citizenship there. After the velvet Revolution, he also lived alternately in the Czech Republic. He decided that his lifelong work would remain in Prague, and therefore dedicated it to the Museum of applied Arts. Currently,Koudelka no longer takes photos and devotes herself to organizing her life’s work.
Take a look at the photos from the exhibition,which will last until March 30 next year,in the gallery.
How does Josef Koudelka’s background influence his photography of ancient ruins?
interview with expert on Josef Koudelka’s exhibition: Ruins
Editor: Welcome to this insightful conversation on Josef Koudelka’s latest exhibition, “Ruins.” Today, we have teh privilege of speaking with Dr. Amelia Gallo, a cultural historian and photography expert. Dr. Gallo, it’s splendid to have you here.
Dr. Gallo: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss Koudelka’s impactful work.
Editor: Koudelka’s exhibition showcases large-format photographs of ancient ruins across the Mediterranean. What do you think makes his work so compelling?
dr. Gallo: Koudelka captures a profound juxtaposition between the remnants of human ambition and the certain passage of time. His panoramic photographs emphasize not just the physicality of the ruins but also evoke feelings of nostalgia and contemplation on the transient nature of civilization. this duality of showcasing decay alongside beauty makes his work deeply engaging.
Editor: The exhibition features 171 pieces, which include images of ancient temples and marketplaces. What can visitors expect to gain from this collection?
Dr. Gallo: Visitors can expect a transformative experience. Each photograph serves as a narrative of its own, allowing viewers to reflect on the past while pondering the future. Koudelka’s solitary approach to photographing these sites invites introspection, reminding us that everything around us, including contemporary structures, may someday become ruins. it’s a powerful reminder of our enduring legacy—or lack thereof.
Editor: Koudelka began this series between 1991 and 2017, visiting over two hundred archaeological sites. how do you think his long-term engagement with these locations affects the impact of his work?
Dr. gallo: His long-term commitment is crucial. by immersing himself in various landscapes and cultures, Koudelka garnered a deep understanding of each site’s historical and cultural meaning. This extended engagement allows him to present not just images, but stories woven with rich contexts. The emotional weight of his photographs is intensified by his years of exploration.
Editor: Koudelka has a remarkable history, including his early work in documenting the 1968 invasion of Czechoslovakia. How does this background inform his current work on ruins?
Dr.Gallo: His experiences during the invasion undoubtedly shaped his outlook on conflict, memory, and history.Transitioning to a focus on ruins can be seen as a metaphor for the aftermath of societal upheaval. The ruins he captures symbolize both loss and potential rebirth. Thay serve as a reminder of the resilience of human spirit amidst destruction—something Koudelka has witnessed throughout his life.
Editor: Koudelka has dedicated his life’s work to the Museum of Applied Arts in Prague. Why is this gesture significant for the art community and future generations?
Dr. gallo: Koudelka’s decision highlights a vital issue in the preservation of cultural heritage. by donating his work,he ensures that future generations can access and learn from these photographs. It fosters an gratitude for history and encourages dialog about preservation efforts. As artists age, maintaining their legacies becomes essential, and koudelka’s commitment sets an inspirational precedent.
Editor: Lastly, what advice would you give to those who are inspired by Koudelka’s work, particularly when it comes to understanding and appreciating photography?
Dr. Gallo: I encourage viewers to approach photography as a means of storytelling. Engaging with images thoughtfully can deepen your understanding of the artist’s intentions. Visit exhibitions,read accompanying texts,and allow yourself to reflect on the emotions and narratives that images evoke. Koudelka’s work reminds us that photography is not only about capturing moments but also about contemplating history, culture, and our existence within it.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Gallo, for sharing your insights on Josef Koudelka’s ”Ruins.” Your perspectives enhance our understanding of this remarkable exhibition.
Dr. Gallo: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing Koudelka’s significant contributions to photography and cultural heritage.
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For more about the ongoing exhibition of Josef Koudelka’s “Ruins,” which runs until March 30 next year, and to view photographs, visit the Museum of Applied Arts in Prague.