The animated short film Hlavy secured the Golden Bear Award at the 1980 West Berlin Film Festival, marking an early career milestone for the Brno-born artist. Since relocating to the United States in 1982, his creative output has spanned editorial illustration, film direction, and an expansive body of acclaimed children’s and young adult literature.
Early Education and Career
Born in 1949, Peter Sís studied at the Uměleckoprůmyslová škola Žižkov, the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague, and later the Royal College of Art in London. During his time at the Royal College, he studied under Quentin Blake. His early professional focus centered on filmmaking and animation, leading to international recognition for his short films before his departure from Czechoslovakia.
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Following a political boycott that affected his home country, he chose to remain in the U.S., eventually receiving political asylum. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1988. Upon settling in New York City, he pivoted toward editorial work and book illustration, contributing to major publications including Time, Newsweek, Esquire, and The Atlantic Monthly.
Illustration and Literature
Sís is recognized for his contributions to children’s literature, producing works such as Happy City and Starry Messenger. His artistic portfolio includes visual interpretations of classic texts, such as his work on Faust Part I, and collaborations with authors like Sid Fleischman and Jack Prelutsky. He has also directed commercials for Nickelodeon and PBS Kids, alongside short films for Sesame Street inspired by his book Madlenka.
Honors and Awards
The artist has received numerous accolades, including the 2012 Hans Christian Andersen Award for his contributions to illustration. He was named a MacArthur Fellow in 2003. His domestic recognition includes the Czech Medal of Merit awarded in 2023, the Artis Bohemiae Amicis Medal in 2012, and multiple Magnesia Litera prizes. His public installations include commissioned artwork for the 86th Street subway station.
Fast facts
- Born: 1949, Brno
- Citizenship: United States; Czechoslovakia
- Notable work: Happy City
- MacArthur Fellowship: 2003
- Hans Christian Andersen Award: 2012
- Czech Medal of Merit: 2023
- Education: Royal College of Art
- Major film award: Golden Bear (1980)
Questions readers ask
What field of the arts is Peter Sís primarily associated with?
He is primarily known as an illustrator, painter, animator, and writer of children's and young adult literature.
Did Sís remain in his home country throughout his career?
No, he traveled to the United States in 1982 for a project and chose to stay, becoming a U.S. citizen in 1988.
Achievements
- Artis Bohemiae Amicis Medal — 2012
- Czech Medal of Merit — 2023
- Notable work: Happy City
