Hana Knížová’s series Mothers offers a poignant yet playful reflection on the evolving role of motherhood, capturing its raw intimacy from the postpartum period to early adolescence. Through her lens, the everyday realities of motherhood are depicted with both candour and warmth, avoiding fixed poses in favour of life’s unfiltered moments.
As Knížová maintains a close relationship with many of her subjects, some photographed over extended periods, the series provides a compelling study of maternal transformation. Subtle shifts in demeanour and attitude reveal how a mother’s sense of self is negotiated within the ever-changing dynamic of the mother-child bond.
In this ongoing series, I document my friends' experiences as they navigate through motherhood. I’m drawn to the unique sense of confidence and ease that emerges through this transformation. Since I am close with many of my subjects, I photograph them over the years, and watch them grow.
Hana Knížová is a Czech photographic artist working in London and Prague. Her work reflects numerous visions of youth and interpersonal relationships, illustrated through conceptual and intimate series of portraits. She was awarded the prestigious John Kobal New Work Award from London's National Portrait Gallery, and the Photographer of the Year Prize by Czech Grand Design. Her work is regularly exhibited.
After the presentations at Sarajevo Photography Festival and Mesnographies Festival (France) in 2023, the series Mothers, and thus the artist’s first exhibition in Slovenia, is going to be shown at Cankarjev dom.
Hana Knížová, Simona, summer
Founder and main co-funder of Cankarjev dom’s Arts and Culture programme
