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 "Kafka on the Metro" campaign

venue:  Metro trains

where: Prague, Czechoslovakia

when: 2022


Dana Ellyn with 19 Karen Gallery owner, Terri Lew. Paintings of Matt Sesow by Dana Ellyn hanging at exhibit.

In January 2023, a public awareness campaign launched across the Prague, Czechoslovakia Metro featuring a striking quote by Franz Kafka:


"Now I can look at you in peace, I don't eat you anymore"


This quote, referring to Kafka’s shift toward vegetarianism, appeared alongside a graphic design based on a painting by Dana Ellyn, who generously gave permission for her work to be used in the campaign.


The posters were displayed inside selected metro cars throughout Prague as part of a month-long campaign organized by Soucitně (Compassionately), supported entirely by donations and volunteer efforts. The campaign highlighted Kafka’s ethical transformation and encouraged reflection on animal rights, using art and literature as powerful tools for change.


Dana’s painting provided the visual foundation for the poster and helped connect Kafka’s words with a contemporary visual voice. The project invited the public to share photos of the posters using the hashtag #kafkavmetru

photos from prague metro