Holocaust survivor, sculptor and human rights advocate Andrew Steiner OAM (b. 1933) was born in Budapest. Only six when the Second World War began, he and his family went into hiding, living in constant fear. Steiner migrated to Australia in 1948 with his parents and sister, where they started a small family business making leather goods. He later completed studies at the University of Adelaide in modern European history, political science, English and art majoring in sculpture. Steiner has created sculpture for almost 50 years (his first commission, notably, being for a Catholic Church), and for the past 30 years he has taught students about the Holocaust at South Australian secondary schools and tertiary institutions. He was the driving force behind the Adelaide Holocaust Museum and Andrew Steiner Education Centre, which opened in November 2020.
Alex Frayne's photograph of 88-year-old Steiner was taken at the opening. Wearing a formal suit and his trademark hat Steiner gazes directly at the camera. His expression shows hope for the future and his pride in the legacy of the museum, which aims to educate people about the history of the Holocaust and communicate the importance of compassion and respect.
Gift of the artist 2021
© Alex Frayne
Alex Frayne (2 portraits)
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