Exhibition “Allegro Forte — The Faces of Czech Music”
Allegro Forte presents a unique collection of portrait photographs showcasing the brightest stars in classical music and dance. Created in collaboration with the Year of Czech Music, this project aims to bring classical music closer to the public, moving it beyond traditional concert halls.
The exhibition title, Allegro Forte, reflects its musical roots — “allegro” meaning fast and lively, and “forte” meaning strong and loud — symbolizing energy and intensity captured in these expressive portraits. The series transports music from the majestic Rudolfinum in Prague to more relatable everyday settings, allowing audiences to experience music in comfortable, familiar environments. Each portrait is taken at a location resonant with the artist’s personality.
Stein and Mlejnská’s work departs from clichéd dramatic portraits, focusing instead on individuality within natural contexts. Their style, reminiscent of Annie Leibovitz, reveals the essence of their subjects in contextually rich honesty, highlighting their societal importance. The collection becomes a document of contemporary cultural life, capturing musicians in authentic environments and reflecting current social trends.
Allegro Forte not only celebrates classical music but invites audiences to rediscover its beauty amidst everyday life, breaking free from elitist traditions. Stein and Mlejnská embrace photography as a dynamic, accessible art form for everyone to experience anytime, anywhere.
ŠtÄ›pánka Stein is an artist based in the Czech Republic. After studying at the Academy of Arts, Architecture, and Design under Pavel Štech, she transitioned into photography and has since established herself as a professional photographer. Her work centers on subjective documentary and portrait photography, where she intricately examines the interplay between documentary realism and stylized imagery.
Vendy Mlejnská is a Czech sculptor, painter, and photographer whose work explores the intersection of fine art and photography. She creates immersive objects and installations while experimenting with photographic mediums. Her art education in Paris has profoundly shaped her understanding of art and aesthetics, enriching her creative vision.
Time: 6:00-8:00 pm EST
Free!
