Jan Saudek: Life is Beautiful, Old Age is Not
Jan Saudek Celebrates 90th Birthday with Senate Exhibition

PRAGUE (AP) — Celebrated Czech photographer Jan Saudek, known for his intimate and often provocative portraits, was honored Tuesday evening with an exhibition at the Czech Senate in Prague.The exhibition, titled “90,” commemorates Saudek’s upcoming 90th birthday in May. Senator František Jura is sponsoring the exhibition, which will be open to the public in the Valdštejn Palace foyer until April 14.
A Life in Photography
Saudek, born May 13, 1935, is considered a pivotal figure in Czech photography. His work frequently explores the relationship between men and women, often featuring women of diverse body types.Saudek’s distinctive style has evoked strong reactions throughout his career. During the Communist era, his work led to multiple house searches by authorities. Following the Velvet Revolution, he received numerous accolades, including a Medal of Merit from President Milos Zeman in 2019 for his contributions to Czech and global photography.
He is the twin brother of Karel Saudek, a renowned comic book artist.
Senate Opening
Saudek, accompanied by his partner Pavlína, attended the Senate opening in high spirits. Senator Tomáš Navrátil noted Saudek’s jovial mood. Saudek and Pavlína have been together for more than 20 years and have three children.
A Senate spokesperson said that Saudek’s attendance was uncertain until shortly before the event. Ultimately, Saudek engaged with the media and posed for photographs.
Reflections on Life and Career
Saudek spoke fondly of his relationship with slovakia, stating that Slovaks had significantly aided his career. The Slovaks benefited me a lot, once they made me millionaires… It was stunning, I want to thank them very much,
he said.
When asked about his photography routine, Saudek, with a smile, said he takes around 70 photos a day. He added that he still enjoys photographing women. I’m not going to lie, the woman is beautiful,
Saudek said.
Saudek also mentioned that he has given up alcohol, though he might make an exception for his birthday. I’m not going to drink now, because I always got drunk… but that’s how it is better without alcohol,
he said. He said he wakes up at 6 a.m.every day and tries to be productive, but admitted, Old age is not good, it is no longer the same as sixty years ago.
Concluding the interview, Saudek reflected on his life: My whole career was beautiful, life is beautiful.
He expressed his gratitude to those present, saying, It was perfect. I wish each of you to resemble it. It was food.
jan Saudek: A Life in Photography Celebrated at 90
Here’s a Q&A about the life and work of Jan Saudek,the celebrated Czech photographer,based on the provided details.
Who is Jan Saudek?
Jan Saudek is a celebrated Czech photographer known for his intimate and frequently enough provocative portraits. He was born on May 13, 1935, and in May is celebrating his 90th birthday.
Why is Jan Saudek being honored with an exhibition?
The Czech Senate in Prague hosted an exhibition titled “90” to commemorate Jan Saudek’s upcoming 90th birthday in May.
Where is the exhibition being held, and when can it be visited?
The exhibition is being held in the Czech Senate, specifically in the Valdštejn Palace foyer. It will be open to the public until April 14.
What themes does Jan Saudek’s photography explore?
Saudek’s work frequently delves into the relationship between men and women. His portraits often feature women of various body types. His distinctive style has evoked strong reactions throughout his career.
What were some key events in Jan Saudek’s career?
Communist Era: His work led to multiple house searches by authorities during the Communist era.
Velvet revolution: Following the Velvet Revolution, he received numerous accolades.
* 2019: He received a Medal of Merit from President Milos Zeman for his contributions to Czech and global photography.
Is Jan Saudek related to anyone else famous?
Yes, Jan Saudek is the twin brother of Karel Saudek, a renowned comic book artist.
How did Jan Saudek feel about the Senate opening?
He attended the Senate opening accompanied by his partner, Pavlína, and was in high spirits. Senator Tomáš Navrátil noted his jovial mood.
How long has jan Saudek been with his partner, Pavlína, and do they have children?
Jan Saudek and Pavlína have been together for more than 20 years and have three children together.
What did Jan Saudek say about his relationship with Slovakia?
He spoke fondly of his relationship with Slovakia, stating that Slovaks had considerably aided his career. He mentioned, “The Slovaks benefited me a lot, once they made me millionaires… It was stunning, I want to thank them very much.” This displays his gratitude towards the country for its role in his success.
What is Jan Saudek’s photography routine like?
he mentioned taking around 70 photos a day. He also added that he still enjoys photographing women, stating, “I’m not going to lie, the woman is gorgeous.”
Has Jan Saudek made any lifestyle changes?
Yes, Jan Saudek mentioned that he has given up alcohol, although he might make an exception for his birthday.
What are Jan Saudek’s reflections on aging?
He admitted, “Old age is not good, it is no longer the same as sixty years ago.” He wakes up every day at 6 a.m. and tries to be productive.
How did Jan Saudek conclude his reflections on his life and career?
Saudek summed up his life with the sentiment: “My whole career was beautiful, life is beautiful.” He expressed gratitude: “It was perfect. I wish each of you to resemble it. It was food.”
Summary of Key Information:
Here’s a table summarizing some key facts about Jan Saudek:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | May 13, 1935 |
| Known For | Intimate and often provocative portraits |
| exhibition Title | “90” |
| Exhibition Location | Czech Senate, Valdštejn Palace foyer |
| Exhibition dates | Open to the public until April 14 |
| Twin Brother | Karel Saudek (comic book artist) |
