How many stories of courage can one city hold? This Alfred-Frank-Tafel Plaque before us stands as a testament to one such story. It commemorates Alfred Frank a Leipzig painter and graphic artist. Frank lived in this very house from 1914 until his arrest on July 19, 1944.
Alfred Frank was born in 1884. He came from humble beginnings and initially trained as a lithographer. While working, he also studied at the local school of arts and crafts. Later, he began sculpting and moved to Leipzig in 1906. He attended evening classes at the Academy for Graphic Art and the Book Trade. In 1912, he enrolled to study full-time. His teachers were Alois Kolb and Bruno Héroux.
However, his studies were interrupted by World War I in 1915. Frank served as a soldier in Flanders and northern France. After the war, he returned to the Academy in Leipzig. He became a master student of Alois Kolb.
Frank’s commitment extended beyond art. He joined the German Social Democratic Party in 1906. While a soldier, he connected with the Spartacus League. In 1918, he joined the German Communist Party. From then on, his art served the party. He supported the workers’ drawing movement. He became chairman of the Association of Revolutionary Visual Artists of Germany.
The rise of the National Socialists in 1933 marked a dark turn. Frank was arrested and then again in 1934. He was sentenced to six months in prison for “disseminating printed matter promoting high treason.” His studio was raided and his works were mostly destroyed.
Despite the danger, Frank continued his resistance. He produced linocuts, pamphlets, and posters for the KPD. On July 19, 1944, the Gestapo arrested him again. On November 23, he was condemned to death. Alfred Frank was executed in Dresden on January 12, 1945.
This Alfred-Frank-Tafel Plaque marks his last residence. It serves as a reminder of his life and sacrifice. The street itself was renamed Alfred-Frank-Strasse in 1946.
The reddish stone tablet bears an inscription. Although it’s worn with age, it speaks volumes. This Alfred-Frank-Tafel Plaque is more than just a marker. It’s a symbol of artistic courage and unwavering political conviction. As you stand here remember Alfred Frank’s dedication to his art and his fight against oppression.