The world’s oldest Holocaust studies library and research center, the Wiener Holocaust Library, is set to reopen its doors on September 20th following extensive

renovations. The reopening will be marked by a special exhibition focusing on the life and work of Fred Kormis, a relatively unknown Jewish émigré artist.

The library, which has been closed for refurbishment since July 22nd, will welcome visitors back with this exhibit that highlights Kormis’ journey and contributions. After fleeing Nazi persecution in Weimar Germany, Kormis sought refuge in London, where he rebuilt his artistic career and created Britain’s first Holocaust memorial. His work, spanning sculpture and printmaking, reflects his experiences as a prisoner of war, refugee, and exile.

The exhibit draws from the library’s extensive refugee family papers collections and showcases some of Kormis’ most important works, brought together from museums and private collections across the UK.

This renovation is the first significant modernization of the library’s space since it moved to Russell Square in 2011. A library spokesperson expressed excitement about the improvements, which include updated exhibition cabinets that will enhance the display of the library’s vital collections. The spokesperson added, “Our free public exhibitions are crucial in engaging people with the original evidence in our archive. We hope this will inspire more visitors to explore our exhibitions, especially at a time when understanding antisemitism and its consequences is more important than ever.”

The Wiener Holocaust Library’s collection houses over one million items, including published and unpublished works, press clippings, photographs, and eyewitness testimonies.

The exhibition on Fred Kormis will run until February 2025. For more information, visit the Wiener Holocaust Library's website. Photo by Philafrenzy, Wikimedia commons.