Exhibition Opening - To Paint is to Live: Art & Resistance in Theresienstadt

Through art clandestinely drawn, hidden, and recovered, this exhibition explores daily life in Theresienstadt, delving into the powerful narratives of endurance, bravery, and resistance through the works of remarkable artists—Erich Lichtblau-Leskly, Fred Beckmann, Moritz Müller, and Leo Haas—each of whom endured the harrowing  conditions of Theresienstadt.

The exhibition encapsulates the  profound role of art as a form of resistance, showcasing how, in the face of   unimaginable adversity, prisoners were able to use their creative expression   to claim their humanity. Torn from their homes, enslaved, and surrounded by   death, Jews continued to use art to express themselves, document life around   them, celebrate culture, and maintain identity.

Through visual narratives, the artists confront the grim realities of their surroundings, providing a stark portrayal of the daily struggles for survival and the pervasive threat of mortality.

"To Paint is to Live" invites viewers to contemplate the transformative power of art in the face of extreme adversity, prompting reflection on the human capacity for resilience, and the struggle to preserve human dignity.

This opening reception will feature a panel discussion on the topic of Architecting Memory, a look at how art and design shape our connection to history. Panelists include Paulette Nessim, HMLA board member and daughter of an architect who survived Theresienstadt, Hagy Belzberg, HMLA Board Member and chief architect, and Holocaust Museum LA Chief Curator of Collections, Christie Jovanovic. The panel will be moderated by Holocaust Museum LA's Creative Programs Manager, Jessie Handler. 

Music will be provided by the JAC trio performing an array of traditional folk and contemporary classical music highlighting themes of struggle, survival, resilience, and liberation.  JAC trio features Janice Mautner Markham on violin, Jennifer Wu on Viola, and Circe Diaz Gamero on cello.

This event is SOLD OUT. 

To learn more about this exhibit and get tickets to view it, click HERE .