From June 18 to September 12, the Cermak Eisenkraft gallery in Prague will host a major international exhibition titled MÝTY (Myths), bringing together ten contemporary artists from the Czech Republic and Germany.

Set in the historic Topičův dům at Národní 9, the exhibition is free to the public and curated by Tomáš Zapletal Cermak. It runs under the patronage of German Ambassador Andreas Künne.

The show reflects on how ancient myths continue to shape the way we understand the world—even in the digital age.

In a time dominated by social media, virtual spaces, and rising existential uncertainty, MÝTY explores how myth has evolved from folklore to a modern lens for interpreting identity, reality, and social transformation.

“This exhibition is about how myths—far from being obsolete—help us navigate today’s complexity,” said curator Zapletal Cermak. “They’re no longer just ancient tales. For many people, especially the younger generation, they offer emotional truths that feel more real than facts.”

Among the Czech contributors is Šimon Brejcha, known for his innovative use of printmaking and graphic experimentation. Jiří Černický, long recognized for blending sculpture, video, and installation, presents works rooted in psychological and cultural mythologies. Karel Štědrý brings a digital precision to abstract geometry, while Vladimír Véla offers large, emotionally charged canvases that blend spiritual imagery with personal symbols.

The German lineup includes Berlin-based Fritz Bornstück, whose complex, layered paintings hover between mundane reality and absurd imagination.

Lennart Grau takes visual cues from rococo and baroque art to build surreal, often melancholic scenes. Ruprecht von Kaufmann, one of Germany’s most prominent figurative painters, contributes haunting mythological works that blur the line between story and allegory.

Other participating artists include Paul Wesenberg, Maik Wolf, and Viet Bang Pham, each exploring memory, chaos, and material form in their own way.

The exhibition also draws on academic insight, shaped by Czech philosopher Prof. Miroslav Petříček and British art historian Prof. Mark Gisbourne. Their advisory role helped frame the broader conversation around myth and meaning in the contemporary art landscape.

On September 11, a trilingual catalogue will be released, featuring essays by Gisbourne and a roundtable discussion between the curator, Prof. Petříček, and the artists.

Info:

Gallery Hours: Monday–Friday, 11:00–18:00 (July, August, and weekends by prior phone appointment)
Admission: Free

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