Nationality Doubtful, a retrospective exhibition of works by Czech photographer Josef Koudelka, is currently on view at the Art Institute of Chicago.  Koudelka’s imagery first reached international audiences and achieved great acclaim through the publication of his photographs of the Soviet invasion of Prague in 1968. In the decades since, he has traveled throughout Europe, photographing people and landscapes expressively and powerfully.  Nationality Doubtful is accompanied by a captivating, and deeply moving, catalogue of the same title.

Last month, an audience at the Art Institute of Chicago was treated to a live conversation among Koudelka, Matthew S. Witkovsky (Richard and Ellen Sandor Chair and Curator, Department of Photography at the Art Institute of Chicago), and Amanda Maddox (assistant curator at the Getty Museum).  There was Romani music, (in reference to Koudelka’s early photographic series Gypsies), and candid discussion about inspiration and the elusive qualities of good art.  Whether or not you were able to attend that illuminating event, we’re certain you’ll enjoy this video of Koudelka offering further insight into his art and practice.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_D5hLeQqHM]

For the full experience, here is a recording of Jelem, Jelem.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0ENp00nSRY]