Malva Schalek

Czech-Jewish painter

Malva Schalek was a Czech-Jewish painter who received her artistic training in Prague. She later relocated to Vienna, where she continued to develop her skills as a painter. Her life took a dramatic turn during World War II, as she was imprisoned in the Theresienstadt concentration camp from 1942 to 1944. This period of incarceration was marked by extreme hardship and struggle, ultimately leading to her transfer to another camp.

Malva Schalek's life was tragically cut short in 1944, when she was murdered at the Auschwitz concentration camp. Despite the brevity and turmoil of her life, she left behind a legacy of artwork that continues to be remembered and appreciated today. Many of her paintings are now held in the Ghetto Fighters' House in Israel, serving as a testament to her talent and enduring creative spirit. Through her art, Malva Schalek's memory lives on, offering a glimpse into the life and experiences of a talented Czech-Jewish painter.