Description: (Czech Filmmaker and Puppet-Maker Regarded as 'Walt Disney of Eastern Europe')
Jiří Trnka was a celebrated Czech puppet-maker, illustrator, animator, and film director known for his pioneering work in puppet animation since 1946. His films, targeted primarily at adults and inspired by literary sources, highlighted his distinctive artistic approach. Often dubbed "the Walt Disney of Eastern Europe," Trnka made a significant mark on the animation industry, despite his style differing notably from Disney's. In 1968, he received the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Medal for illustrators in recognition of his significant contributions to children's literature.