Prague Art Studio in Czech Republic
Korber's Atelier Prague, Czech Republic
I always knew I would experience Bohemia. Unsure of when or how I made that decision in 2001. I felt it needed to happen before any more time slipped away. I stepped out of my comfort zone with my eyes wide open like a newborn. I plunged into a new world with all its charms in the simplest of moments.
Before I set out, I read the works of Franz Kafka, a Bohemian novelist and short story writer. In his Metamorphosis, the main character Gregorinto awakens to find himself inexplicably transformed into an insect. I can assure you that I did not wake up with an exoskeleton or extra pairs of legs. Nonetheless, as I reflected on my departure, I understood on a profound level that I was no longer the same person. Since my arrival in Prague, I had undergone my own metamorphosis.
Upon my arrival in Prague, I remember the moment when I was filled with wonder and overwhelmed with that nervous energy. You know those rare moments of WOW... I made it! I arrived at my Atelier in Hradčany, in Praha 1, with its window facing tram stop Pohořelec 22 behind Prague Castle. To this day I consider these years as the most important and intense years in my personal growth, my artistic development and exploration of life.
I devoted my time to frequent model figure sessions in my atelier and to drawing in Prague's cafes, and parks. Painting, as always, was unpredictable. A single session could continue for days. This 6-month adventure turned into over four years of wonder and unexpected encounters at every turn.
It was there that I...
Laid below a full moon on the grass in a hilltop Castle garden.
Crossed a Castle dry moats with bears as keepers.
On a winter day sipped the REAL Hot Chocolate.
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Walked in its parks on summer days, partaking in the fruits ripening on the low branches.
Strolled through its Pivo gardens.
Sipped tea in Dobra Cajovna tearoom.
Devoured Dana's homemade apple strudel and Czech plum dumplings (knedlíky).
Celebrated May 1st with friends and a rotisserie pig at the riverside.
Reflected, observed, wondered, loved and was kissed on Charles Bridge.
Danced, danced and danced, everywhere...
Experienced DJ shadow LIVE.
Played frisbee in the snow at -18 degrees.
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Really... throwdown Vin Diesel's stunt double at the opening of XXX - the movie.
Was offered an apple under its branches... and I took a bite.
Overlooked and stood above the Great America (Velká Amerika).
Experienced many cups of yogi tea on a winter morning in Malý Buddha.
Found some new pieces of myself and lifelong friendships.
Learned that a list can become extraordinarily long.
Found my Venus.
There I experienced a celebration of freedom and its energy. It is the place where living was an everyday occurrence, with a wonder that never ceased. It is the reason I call it home in my heart. Strangely, I find myself once again with anticipation of returning.
Memories & works from artist's studio in Prague, Czech Republic
About Prague
Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic. It is rich in culture and of astonishing beauty. Bisected by the Vltava River Prague is often referred to as the city of a hundred spires. It is known for its sights, cafes, Baroque architecture, Gothic churches, and the famous medieval Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square (Staroměstské Náměstí). And of course, the world-famous pedestrian bridge built in 1402, the Charles Bridge (Karlův Most).
In 1990, Frank Zappa, composer and musician, was appointed Special Ambassador to the West for Trade, Culture, and Tourism for Czechoslovakia. This action was performed by President Havel just two months after the fall of the Berlin Wall in Eastern Europe.
