Prague, The Czech Republic
This painting is inspired by a visit to the Prague Castle complex twenty-five years ago, where I found myself captivated by the legendary Golden Lane (Zlatá ulička). This picturesque alley is famous for its tiny, brightly colored houses built directly into the castle's northern fortification walls.
In this work, I sought to strip away the modern crowds and reimagine the street as it might have appeared in the 16th century. Historically, these modest dwellings housed the castle guards and, later, the goldsmiths who gave the lane its name. Even the famous writer Franz Kafka briefly sought refuge and inspiration in one of these vibrant little houses.
Through bold colors and forced perspective, I have attempted to capture the medieval spirit of this historic alley—the warmth of the yellow and red facades against the cobblestone path, reaching back through time to honor the artisans and guards who once called the castle walls home.
In this work, I sought to strip away the modern crowds and reimagine the street as it might have appeared in the 16th century. Historically, these modest dwellings housed the castle guards and, later, the goldsmiths who gave the lane its name. Even the famous writer Franz Kafka briefly sought refuge and inspiration in one of these vibrant little houses.
Through bold colors and forced perspective, I have attempted to capture the medieval spirit of this historic alley—the warmth of the yellow and red facades against the cobblestone path, reaching back through time to honor the artisans and guards who once called the castle walls home.