A Hidden Legacy Uncovered
This documentary seeks to uncover the life and legacy of Gertrud Kauders, an artist whose contributions to the Prague art scene were nearly erased by war and her murder by the Nazis. Inspired by the near-miraculous rediscovery and successful repatriation of her lost works, the film will shed light, not only on a remarkable, complex artist but also on the delicate threads of cultural and political history that can easily unravel without recognition and remembrance.
Hidden From The Nazis, Murdered Jewish Artist’s
Trove Of Paintings Discovered In Prague House
Kauders embraced a Bohemian lifestyle as an independent woman of Prague.
Help us bring her story into the light.
Gertrud Kauders was nearly erased from history.
Now, her story—and her art—have a chance to be seen, heard, and remembered.
In 2018, over 700 of her paintings were discovered, hidden behind the walls of a Prague home.
The Kauders-During family, her only living descendants, have since fought to reclaim and repatriate her work.
Select pieces have already been acquired by museums including Te Papa Tongarewa in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
This film continues that work—restoring Gertrud’s legacy and illuminating the fragile threads of memory, migration, and resistance.
We’re seeking supporters, funders, and collaborators to help us carry this story forward.
Take Part
A contemporary of TOYEN (Marie Čermínová), Franz Kafka, and the wider Secessionist movement, Kauders’ work was celebrated by critics—however her recognition was overshadowed by the atrocities of war and suppression. As part of Prague’s art scene in the 1920s-30s, Kauders was a key figure in modernism, yet her contribution remains under-represented and underappreciated in the broader narrative of 20th-century art.
Project Timeline
Our project at a glance
Phase 1:
Pre-Production
Planning the story framework, conducting initial research, securing archival materials, and preparing for on-location filming.
↑ WE ARE HERE
Phase 2:
Production
Capturing interviews, site visits, and pivotal storytelling moments across locations connected to Gertrud Kauders’ life and legacy.
Phase 3:
Post-Production
Editing, sound design, and integrating archival materials to craft a compelling, cohesive narrative.
Phase 4:
Distribution
Launching through film festivals, streaming platforms, and targeted marketing to reach audiences worldwide and celebrate Kauders’ rediscovered legacy.
Take Part
By supporting this documentary, you become part of something bigger than a film—you help preserve a lost chapter of art history, ensuring that Gertrud Kauder’s name and work are remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
Let’s talk further about how you can be a part of this historic project.
Clare O’Leary—Director/Producer
→ olearyclare@gmail.com
Glenis Giles—Producer
→ glenis.giles@gmail.com
© All rights reserved gogomedia AOTEAROA 2025
All artworks by Gertrud Kauders
courtesy of the Kauders During family.
Many thanks to Amos Chapple, our man in Prague.
