ICOM Prague 2022 | Light in the heart of darkness

Light in the heart of darkness: Fine arts in Ostrava

Art Design

The region of coal mining, a distinct local dialect, industrial surroundings, identity loss… Many attributes have been given to Ostrava in the past, and most of them with negative connotations. It might not seem like the place to find cultural diversity and support for the arts, but you would be wrong! The Ostrava area has risen from the ashes of the past like a phoenix into unbelievable blossoms, turning its darker sides into light by giving new meaning to buildings, sculptures and public areas, all in close cooperation with local cultural institutions.

Two such institutions have been leaders in this approach: the Gallery of Fine Arts in Ostrava and PLATO – a city gallery for contemporary art.

At the Gallery of Fine Arts you will have the chance to see not only the permanent exhibition, but also a new, virtual one about A. Procházka, made with the help of modern technologies. You can also try an educational program catered to children, or admire a high-tech scanner built especially for art pieces. After a quick break, you will be invited on a short guided tour focused on sculpture in public areas. That will bring us close to the newly restored seat of PLATO – the former municipal slaughterhouse – where the gallery will introduce itself through a performance of two artists: Sláva Sobotovičová and David Fesl.

Recommended for members of: AVICOM, CECA, INTERCOM, ICFA, MPR