Artist Hynek Martinec unveils Jan Palach memorial painting

A new painting by UK-resident artist Hynek Martinec has been unveiled at the Jan Palach Memorial in Všetaty, the village where the historical figure grew up. The artwork, which depicts Palach’s death mask, was created by Martinec during the COVID-19 pandemic as a personal therapeutic response to the era of restrictions.

Martinec stated that the piece serves as a message to future generations, using the striking imagery of the death mask to convey the difficulty faced by the nation during the Soviet-led invasion of Czechoslovakia. The artist incorporated a tricolor into the painting to represent Czechoslovakia and noted that Palach’s act represents a rebellion against passivity.

The painting is part of a long-term project by the National Museum to display contemporary art at the memorial, which is housed in Palach’s former family home. The exhibition aims to provide a modern perspective on Palach’s legacy and the fragility of democracy. The work was provided on loan by collector Václav Nekvapil and supported by the EduArt Experience platform.