Screening | Identity: A Czech Graphic Design Love Story

Kateřina Mikulcová, Petr Smělík, Czech Republic 2024, 85 mins
OmeU

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Renowned NY-based auctioneer and passionate collector Nicholas Lowry embarks on a captivating journey across the Czech Republic, uncovering the visual and cultural threads that define Czech national identity. Swapping the auction house for adventure, Czech-American Lowry—instantly recognizable in his signature tartan suit—travels from the vibrant streets of Prague to the design-rich cities of Zlín, Litomyšl, Brno, and Pilsen. Along the way, he delves into the legacies of visionary figures like Tomáš Baťa, Josef Váchal, Alfons Mucha, and Ladislav Sutnar, while also indulging in one of the country’s greatest exports—Pilsner beer.

His exploration takes unexpected turns, from South Moravia’s vineyards, where he examines the artistry of wine labels, to the scenic hiking trails marked by the Czech Tourist Club’s innovative wayfinding system. Lowry also connects with today’s leading graphic designers, including Petr Babák, Martin Pecina, and Aleš Najbrt, bridging past and present in Czech visual culture.

But this journey is more than just an exploration—it’s personal. As he traces the evolution of Czech design, Lowry uncovers a piece of his own history: his great-uncle founded the Primeros factory in Prague, a story intertwined with the nation’s graphic identity. Through humor, curiosity, and a collector’s keen eye, he offers a fresh perspective on what shapes a country’s visual soul.

Kateřina Mikulcová, Petr Smělík, Czech Republic 2024, 85 mins

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Host or Publisher Tschechisches Zentrum Berlin