Holocaust Survivor’s Artful Resistance: ‘Bau, Artist at War’ Film Released
Joseph Bau’s journey is a testament to resilience and creativity amid unimaginable hardships during the Holocaust. Born in Krakow in 1920, Bau was an art student when Nazi Germany invaded Poland. His life was transformed from aspiring artist to Holocaust survivor, utilizing his talents to defy Nazi oppression.
A Miraculous Survival Story
Imprisoned first in the Krakow ghetto and later in the Plaszow labor camp, Bau became an invaluable asset due to his skills in Gothic lettering, calligraphy, and graphic design. His role enabled him to maneuver within the Nazi administration, creating signs and documentation. What the Nazis overlooked was Bau’s capacity to wield art as a form of resistance.
- Name: Joseph Bau
- Birth Year: 1920
- Birthplace: Krakow, Poland
- Major Camps: Plaszow, Auschwitz
Art as Resistance
Bau forged documents and helped fellow prisoners escape transport assignments. Using humor, he uplifted spirits and maintained a sense of humanity within the camps. “As long as people could laugh, they were still alive,” his daughter Clila Bau-Cohen recalls.
Among his boldest acts was his romance with Rebecca Tennenbaum, whom he secretly married in Plaszow. Their love was defiance against the Nazis’ attempts to strip away dignity. Rebecca also played a crucial role; fluent in German, she gathered intelligence while suffering brutal punishment.
Legacy of Love and Resilience
After the war, Joseph and Rebecca’s reunion defied the odds. Despite being separated across various camps, they found each other through a series of fortunate events. Their experiences shaped how they raised their daughters, fostering open discussions about the Holocaust without shame.
Transforming History into Art
Bau’s memoir, “Dear God, Have You Ever Gone Hungry?”, later retitled “Bau: Artist at War”, serves not only as a historical account but as a guide for future generations. He believed that understanding the Holocaust required both intellectual engagement and emotional connection.
| Significant Contributions | Details |
|---|---|
| Memoir | “Dear God, Have You Ever Gone Hungry?” |
| Artistic Achievement | Founded Israel’s first animation studio |
| Awards | Posthumous recognition for promoting the Hebrew language |
Film Release: ‘Bau: Artist at War’
The film “Bau: Artist at War” took 16 years to produce, directed by Sean McNamara and featuring actors Inbar Lavi and Emile Hirsch. It aims to preserve the legacy of Joseph Bau and has received widespread acclaim, screening in the U.S., Canada, and Australia.
Following its release, the film has sparked renewed interest in the Joseph Bau House Museum in Tel Aviv, which showcases his artwork, typography, and personal artifacts. This museum serves as a cultural bridge connecting Holocaust survival with Israeli identity.
Despite its significance, the museum faces threats from redevelopment and funding challenges. Both Clila and Hadasa Bau emphasize the importance of keeping their father’s legacy alive and ensuring that his contributions are not forgotten.
The museum has gained international recognition, evidenced by its Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award, attracting visitors eager to learn about the intersection of art, survival, and culture.
Joseph Bau’s story reaffirms the idea that even in the darkest of times, art, love, and resilience can create a profound impact. His legacy continues to resonate as a source of inspiration and remembrance.
