ABOUT THE LECTURE: 

"From the Heart of Europe to the Land of the Free - History of the Czechs in America"
Thousands of people dreamed of leaving poor Bohemian lands, crossing the ocean and entering the country of endless hope. After the middle of the 19th century there was a massive wave of Czech migration to America, mostly to the Midwest and larger cities. The lecture will, however, focus on lesser known chapters, namely the history of selected Czech communities in western part of the USA, including the Southwestern and the Mountain states. Dr. Nekola will also take advantage of the opportunity and introduce a new book, currently being completed by the Consulate General in LA.

ABOUT MARTIN NEKOLA:

Martin Nekola, Ph.D. received his doctorate in political science at the Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic. His research is focused on non-democratic regimes, the Cold War and the Czech communities in the USA. From time to time he participates in the election observation missions organized by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). He is the member of Association for Slavic, East European and Eurasian Studies (ASEEES), he is the author of more than 300 articles and has published 30 books. He is also the Czechoslovak Talks Project coordinator.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION: Beyond the Horizon

Czech artist Martin Kafes33 Hirth invites you on a visual journey through the vast and untamed landscapes of the American West. Created during his travels in a Camper Van, these abstract paintings capture the spirit of sunlit Californian beaches—where real sand is woven into the canvas—as well as the raw beauty of Utah’s plateaus, Nevada’s deserts, and the mystical valleys of New Mexico and Arizona. Discover the essence of these iconic places through bold textures, vibrant colors, and the endless sense of adventure embodied in these paintings.

ABOUT MARTIN KAFES33 HIRTH

Martin’s work is driven by a deep fascination with lines, which he transforms into an infinite variety of organic structures in an abstract form. His paintings offer viewers a unique, often meditative experience, triggering a cascade of associations. He adds another dimension to his works—whether through layered and relief paintings or by incorporating augmented reality.

Martin’s art has been exhibited in New York, Miami, Costa Rica, London, Brussels, and Prague. His paintings were even loaned to the offices of the team of successful presidential candidate Petr Pavel.

Last year, Martin won first place in the Art Grand Slam Award in the Public Space category for his basketball court design for the only Czech NBA player, Vít Krejčí. He also gained recognition for the iconic “Pasta Jacket,” created for NHL star David “Pasta” Pastrňák during the Ice Hockey World Championship in the Czech Republic.