ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Belarusian Human Rights Advocate Maria Kalesnikava Receives Karlspreis After Prison Release

award · 2026-03-24

Belarusian human rights activist and flutist Maria Kalesnikava has been awarded the Karlspreis following her unexpected release from five years of imprisonment. The recognition comes after her detention for political reasons in Belarus. Kalesnikava recently participated in a discussion about her experiences.

Key facts

  • Maria Kalesnikava is a Belarusian human rights defender and musician
  • She was imprisoned for five years before being unexpectedly freed
  • Kalesnikava received the Karlspreis award
  • She engaged in a conversation about her imprisonment and activism
  • Her release and award highlight ongoing political issues in Belarus

Entities

Artists

  • Maria Kalesnikava

Locations

  • Belarus

Sources