Peter Sís is an internationally renowned artist, illustrator, and author, best known for his distinctively detailed and dreamlike illustrations. Born in Brno, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic) in 1949, Sís grew up behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War, an experience that deeply influenced many of his works. He began his career as a filmmaker and became a part of the Young Czech Filmmakers movement, but after a brief stay in the United States on a scholarship in the early 1980s, he decided to stay due to the political climate in his homeland. In the United States, he transitioned to illustrating and writing children's books, merging his personal history with broader historical and cultural narratives.
Over the years, Peter Sís received numerous accolades for his illustrated books such as 'The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain', 'The Pilot and the Little Prince: The Life of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry', and 'Starry Messenger: Galileo Galilei', have garnered numerous awards. His unique artistic style, which combines intricate detail with rich layers of meaning, makes him one of the most influential illustrators of his time, captivating both children and adults alike.
The exhibition is a testament to Sís's prolific career, showcasing original illustrations from his renowned picture books and other creative expressions, culminating in an impressive collection of approximately 200 pieces. It meticulously traces Sís's artistic evolution, painting a story of darkness, dreams, and an unwavering pursuit of freedom.