Culture

New Permanent Exhibition of Over 300 Artworks Opened at the National Gallery

The new collection covers an entire floor of the Trade Fair Palace, with 300 works purely from the collections of the National Gallery and a cross-section of domestic work spanning eight decades. The new permanent exhibition entitled 1939-2021: The End of the Black and White Era, aims to show visitors how the perception of artistic quality in the Czech Republic has changed over time. Within the collection, several types of creative expression exist side by side illustrating that art serves primarily as a testimony to the times. The exhibition begins in 1939, drawing the visitor into the wartime art of Emil Filla, Jan Kotík, Josef Čapek, Karel Kotrba, and the artists of Group 42. The collection continues through the equally dark period of totalitarianism, in which a number of artistic movements flourished despite the suppression of the creative spirit. “The title, ‘The End of the Black and White Era’ can carry many connotations. It is also a slogan summing up our approach. We try to go beyond simple evaluation criteria based on opposites. The period after 1939 is still artistically alive and has a direct influence on the present,” says Michal Novotný, Director of the Collection of Modern and Contemporary Art and curator of the new exhibition. The works on display...

 by Prague Morning May 29, 2023

How The Defenestration Of Prague Helped Spark The Thirty Years’ War

Tempers ran hot in Bohemia on May 23, 1618. Then, the Defenestration of Prague saw three Catholic officials defenestrated, or tossed from a window, by local Protestants. Thanks to the grace of God or a pile of manure — depending on who you asked — the officials survived. But the aftermath was catastrophic. The Defenestration of Prague was more than a spat between two religious sects. It encapsulated long-held and mounting tensions between Catholics and Protestants in Europe. What’s more, its bloody aftermath would lead to the Thirty Years’ War, in which more than eight million people lost their lives to violence and famine. So what exactly led to the Defenestration of Prague in 1618? Long-Simmering Tension Between Catholics And Protestants The years leading up to the Defenestration of Prague were largely defined by tensions between Catholics and Protestants. The two sects had warred for much of the 16th-century, as Protestantism spread across the continent and fractured the religious unity of the Holy Roman Empire. In 1555, the Treaty of Augsburg established an uneasy peace between the two groups. It lay down the principle of cuius regio, eius religion, meaning a ruler could decide the religion for his land. And though rulers of...

 by Prague Morning May 23, 2023

Bavarian Symphony Orchestra to Perform in Prague

The appearance of the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra headed by Daniel Harding promises to be one of the highlights of the 78th edition of the Prague Spring. One of the world’s finest orchestras and its top-flight conductor will perform Gustav Mahler’s monumental Symphony No. 7, whose premiere was held in Prague in 1908. The Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra first performed at the Prague Spring in 1987 under conductor Sir Colin Davis. Known for its supreme interpretations, the ensemble was shaped in the years 1961–1979 by Czech conductor in exile Rafael Kubelík, who recorded the complete Mahler symphonies with the orchestra, an achievement celebrated to this day. After Kubelík’s departure Sir Colin Davis stood at the helm for almost ten years, and in the period 1993–2002 they were led by Lorin Maazel. From 2003 until his death in December 2019 the orchestra was headed by Mariss Jansons. From the 2022/23 season onwards the post of Chief Conductor will be assumed by Sir Simon Rattle, who is already working closely with the orchestra at this time. Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 7 was premiered in 1908 at Prague’s Exhibition Grounds on the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee of Emperor Franz Joseph I; the Czech Philharmonic was...

 by Prague Morning May 22, 2023

Metronome Prague —More than Music, it’s Now a Music & Arts Fair

The Metronome Festival has built a reputation as the veritable summer music happening in Prague by bringing internationally top-names along with the best of local talent across musical genres for four evenings and three full days in June. Beginning the 21st with two evening concerts, altogether there are 66 artists-groups on the program. Then from the 22-24th there is an accompanying program making it a Music & Arts Fair with art exhibits, installations, workshops, film and theatre productions, and special attractions. The music headliners are Jamiroquai, M83, Moderat, Zaz, Aurora, Tove Lo, and more.  Jamiroquai has played Metronome before, and so their return is due to the nostalgia factor. The leader Jay Kay was a celebrity of the acid jazz scene, and their “chill out” vibe defines the 1990s post Velvet Revolution daze. From this perspective “Return of the Space Cowboy” their second album from 1994, and certainly their most popular recording, should be the motto for these London funksters’ return.  In contrast, music for the millennials is best served by M83, a French electronic group (dream-pop, synth-pop meets alt-rock) who has been based in Los Angeles practically since their rise to stardom. M83 is the second-wave of French groups,...

 by Tony O. May 22, 2023

Roger Waters “This is Not a Drill” Tour Coming to Prague

The show on May 24th is sold out, but there are still tickets available for the second show on May 25th. “This Is Not A Drill” is a groundbreaking rock and roll/cinematic extravaganza performed in the round. It serves as a stunning indictment of the corporate dystopia we struggle to survive in, while also being a call to action to love, protect, and share our precious and precarious planet home. The show features a dozen great songs from Pink Floyd’s golden era, along with several new ones, all written and composed by Roger Waters. It may be his last hurrah and is often referred to as his first farewell tour. Don’t miss it! “Arms wide, Waters explored the expanse of the stage, captivating all sides. Returning to the Pink Floyd canon, the group delivered an impressive setlist, including “Have a Cigar,” “Wish You Were Here,” “Shine on You Crazy Diamond,” and “Sheep.” ~ Forbes “Roger Waters’ superpower is his ability to initiate difficult conversations through his music, and he knows it.” ~ Chicago Sun Times Waters will be on lead vocals, guitars, bass, and piano. Joining him on stage are Jonathan Wilson on guitars and vocals, Dave Kilminster on guitars...

 by Prague Morning May 18, 2023

Tips for Buildings to Visit at Open House Prague 2023

Do you need help deciding which buildings to visit during Open House Prague 2023 on the weekend of May 20–21, or are you just looking for inspiration? Below is a list of carefully selected buildings and premises that offer a wide range of architecture styles. You can visit monumental, opulent constructions in the heart of Prague, see several examples of modern architecture, and visit various parts of Prague such as Holešovice, Smíchov, and Ruzyně.  Admission to all buildings is free with no need for prior registration, except for Hotel Intercontinental. Selected buildings also offer guided tours in English throughout the day – availability is indicated by an icon in the description of each building. Representative & Historical Buildings Adria Palace (English tour available)  This monumental palace is one of Prague’s few buildings built in the national style. This purely Czech artistic style (also called Art Deco, rondocubism, or Czech deconstructivism) incorporated references to folklore, Slavic colorfulness, and a greater amount of decorativeness. Today’s art historians agree that Adria Palace is one of the most fascinating architectural monuments in Prague, commending the decorations and details. City Mayor’s Residence The plain neoclassical façade of the Municipal Library in Prague hides exceptional interiors that were influenced by late Art Nouveau and Art Deco, and many significant Czech...

 by Prague Morning May 17, 2023

May 18, 1891: The Official Opening of the National Museum in Prague

The National Museum is an unparalleled cultural monument and it has been guarding its current place for around 130 years. The interiors of the largest museum in the Czech Republic are dominated by permanent exhibitions, which are visited by tens of thousands of visitors a year, and new ones are constantly being added. Every visitor will feel like in a real palace in the interiors of the National Museum. History of the museum building The appearance of the museum as we know it today was created at the end of the 19th century. The competition for construction took place in 1876. It was won by the design of the architect Josef Schulz, who excelled above all in the dominant elements, which was decisive. The construction of the museum took only three years and its access, including the equipped interiors, took place in the 1990s, specifically on May 18, 1891. Painters Bohuslav Schnircha, Antonín Wagner, Vojtěch Hynais, Václav Brožík and Julius Mařák, for example, took part in the decoration of the premises. Like most famous monuments or cities, the National Museum in Prague was hit by fire. This happened in 2016 when a fire destroyed the attic of the right wing....

 by Prague Morning May 17, 2023

Recommended English Bookstores from an Expat Bookworm Living in Prague

By Kathryn Murphy When getting lost in a good book, I always feel more indulged while reading in the right setting. Having that perfect reading corner in the back of a bookstore, under a blooming tree in the grass, or at a wooden table sipping on a vanilla latte while the smell of coffee consumes me. Since moving to Prague two months ago, my first mission was to find places to both dive into my reading and find a good book to do so. When I first arrived in Prague, I decided to read one of my favorite book series, Harry Potter. Adjusting to a new city halfway across the world from my small town in Iowa, this series brought me a sense of comfort while adjusting to Prague. I explored my neighborhood, Vinohrady, when I arrived here first, and found a charming Italian Renaissance styled park, Grébovka (Havlíčkovy Sady) surrounded by statues and man-made stone caves. When walking through the labyrinth of paths and staircases, benches are hidden away amongst the stonework; making for a peaceful private reading space. For a sunnier, more spacious reading area, I took to the many benches or open grasses on the hill overlooking the city by the Koi pond. I...

 by Prague Morning May 15, 2023

Tiktok Famous DJ S!ck!ck to Perform in Prague

Canadian producer S!ck!ck is bringing the dance party to Prague on June 30 at Retro Music Hall! With over 10 million active followers, S!ck!ck has taken over the remix industry. He is both a DJ and a talented recording artist. His unique take on current music blended with classic hits creates an atmospheric auditory experience like no other. Collaborating with noteworthy artists such as Madonna, Post Malone, 070 Shake, Fireboy DML and more, S!ck!ck is making a name for himself in music without ever showing his face. Bringing together elements of trap, bass, reggaeton, electro and R&B, the masked artist has crafted his unique style of electronica by layering seductive lyrics over hard-hitting percussion. He has parlayed his recent explosion into a global 2022 touring cycle having just performed at Tomorrowland, Rock in Rio, World Club Dome and his own headline tour. About Sickick Despite his musical talent, the idea of fame and crowds was once a cause of anxiety for Sickick. The iconic mask, which is now ubiquitous with his image and music, has allowed him to overcome his fears. Sickick has received acknowledgements from musical heavyweights like Missy Elliott, Jason Derulo, Shaq, Timbaland and Sean Paul for his...

 by Prague Morning May 15, 2023

Guide to the Night of the Museums 2024: What to Visit for FREE in Prague

International Museum Day is held every year on May 18 and is a project of the International Council of Museums (ICOM). The day was established in 1977 to increase public awareness of the role of museums in the development of society. The objective of International Museum Day is to raise awareness about the fact that museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures, development of mutual understanding, and peace among people. Admission fees will be waived in nearly all departments of the National Museum, offering visitors a wide range of exhibits and collections to enjoy. Moreover, four branches of the National Gallery in Prague will be accessible without charge. From 10:00 to 18:00, guests can explore exhibitions such as “Old Masters I” at Schwarzenberský Palace and “Medieval Art in Bohemia and Central Europe 1200-1550” at St. Agnes Monastery. Visitors can explore the National Agricultural Museum free of charge and take in breathtaking views of Prague from the building’s rooftop. The museum, located at Kostelní 1300/44, will welcome guests from 09:00 to 17:00. The Clam-Gallas Palace, part of the Prague City Museum, will also be open to the public at no cost, offering a glimpse into its rich...

 by Prague Morning May 15, 2023

World’s Largest Theater Scenography Festival to Take Place on June 8-18

The Prague Quadrennial of Performance Design and Space was established in 1967 to bring the best of design for performance, scenography, and theatre architecture. Opening of the main exhibitions of the Prague Quadrennial will take place on Wednesday, 7 June at 6 p.m. in the Holešovice Market Hall – the main venue of this 15th edition. Numerous parts will also be hosted in the National Gallery and The Academy of Performing Arts. PQ does not operate merely as a festival, gradually it has evolved into a platform, which explores progressive approaches, new media, virtual spaces and interdisciplinary relations. The main two exhibitions – the Exhibition of Countries and Regions and the Student Exhibition – are competitive and the artistic teams of individual countries and regions are appointed by the local curator representatives. During the eleven days, the visitors of PQ will have the opportunity to experience around 150 exhibitory projects and installations, 50 performances mainly in the public space, a live exhibition of 35 concepts of performance spaces, 60 of the most inspired publications about scenography issued in the past five years or 40 blocks of expert lectures. Each programme section examines scenography/performance design from a different point of view, making the Prague Quadrennial one of the most...

 by Prague Morning May 11, 2023

Some Like It Czech to Screen “Dark Blue World” – The Movie that Inspired “Pearl Harbor”

On May 17th, Some Like It Czech is hosting a screening event for the uplifting drama Dark Blue World, a heartfelt tribute to the heroic Czechoslovak pilots who served in the British Royal Air Force during World War II. Directed by the acclaimed Oscar-winning filmmaker Jan Svěrák, this movie has been hailed as the main source of inspiration for the Hollywood blockbuster Pearl Harbor. To add an extra layer of context and insight, this screening will be accompanied by an introduction by a RAF historian Daniel Švec. “The heroes of the air battles over Europe, who won us respect among the peoples of all countries of the world, are gloriously returning to Prague, from where they once fled like outlaws. They were greeted at Ruzyně airport by general Svoboda and numerous officials.” With these words, the Czechoslovak Film Weekly reported on the return of the Czechoslovak pilots who served in RAF in August 1945. And these heroes are coming back once again… on a silver screen with the movie Dark Blue World (2001, watch the trailer) directed by an Academy winner Jan Svěrák.  The film follows the story of two Czech pilots, who escape their homeland after the Nazi occupation...

 by Prague Morning May 11, 2023

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