Enemy Frenemy Friend
Whether Prisoners of War created art for self-expression, as a means of exchange, to alleviate boredom, or to soothe homesickness remains largely unknown.
However, their creations can reveal insights into the pre-war lives these individuals led and longed to return to. This exhibit offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect creatively with World War II history, moving beyond mere facts and figures.
We hope it provides a deeper understanding of the human emotions of those labeled as enemies during this time of global conflict.
Click on any image to enlarge.
German POW carving of a British and a German soldier in the North African Campaign. The soldier on the right appears to be German, and the one on the left appears to be British.
Wooden cigarette cases made by POWs. This case was found in the personal effects of the POW camp commander, Colonel Wolfe, who was a nonsmoker. We can presume individuals such as Colonel Wolfe had these cases as decorative items and not necessarily to hold cigarettes.
Small POW Carved Horse