J&T Bank Donates Art Collection to National gallery Prague, Showcasing Czech Talent
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In a groundbreaking move, J&T Bank, a leading private financial institution in the Czech Republic, has announced the donation of its prestigious Magnus Art collection to the National gallery Prague (NGP). This marks the first time a private company in the country has entrusted its art collection to a public institution. The donation, set to take effect next year, will feature works by winners of the Jindřich Chalupecký Prize, a prestigious annual award for young Czech artists since 1990.
The Magnus Art collection, established by J&T Bank, includes a remarkable array of post-revolutionary artworks, with a particular focus on the works of 28 Jindřich Chalupecký Prize laureates from 1990 to 2018.Among the highlights are pieces by renowned artists such as Jiří Černický, whose winning work in 1998 will be showcased, and sculptor lukáš Rittstein, the inaugural prize recipient in 1990. These and other significant works will be displayed at the Veletržní Palace, a prominent venue within the National Gallery Prague.
“Corporate patronage in the field of art is not common in our country. Individuals rather than companies usually donate their collections to galleries,” says Stephen asher, CEO of J&T Bank. “As the beginning, we have been associated with a kind of pioneering, so we believe that this time too we will inspire other private companies to follow us. It is one of the other ways in which the private sector can support domestic culture,” he adds.
this initiative underscores J&T Bank’s commitment to fostering cultural heritage and supporting emerging Czech artists.By making these works accessible to the public, the bank aims to inspire other private entities to contribute to the preservation and promotion of domestic art.
Alicja Knast, General director of the National Gallery Prague, expressed her enthusiasm for the donation, stating, “The works from the Magnus art collection are an crucial addition to the art of the last thirty years, which is still missing the most from the NGP collection. In addition, these are top-notch works that will represent the authors well.”
The integration of the Magnus Art collection into the National Gallery Prague is expected to substantially enrich the institution’s offerings, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of contemporary Czech art. This partnership between a private enterprise and a public cultural institution sets a precedent for future collaborations, perhaps unlocking new avenues for supporting and celebrating artistic talent in the Czech Republic.
About the Jindřich Chalupecký Prize
Established in 1990, the Jindřich Chalupecký Prize has been a cornerstone of support for young Czech artists, recognizing their innovation and creativity. The prize has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of many notable figures in the Czech art scene, making it a vital part of the country’s cultural landscape.
As the National Gallery Prague prepares to unveil these treasured works, art enthusiasts and the general public alike can look forward to a new chapter in the party of Czech artistic excellence.
Magnus Art Collection: A Testament to Czech Art’s Rising Value
The Magnus Art collection, a treasure trove of young Czech art, has recently been valued at approximately 17.9 million crowns,showcasing not only its cultural significance but also its growing financial worth.Valerie Horváth, an art specialist at J&T Bank, emphasized the collection’s unique purpose, stating, “The Magnus Art collection was never intended as an investment collection. We have always known that its value lies above all in its integrity and ability to illustrate the growth of young Czech art in a turning point for our culture and society.The fact that its financial value has also increased significantly only proves the enormous potential of young Czech art.”
A Cultural Milestone: Upcoming Exhibitions
The National Gallery Prague is set to showcase some of these remarkable works next fall as part of the collection exhibition titled 1939–2021: The End of the Black and White Era. This exhibition, housed in the iconic Veletržní palác, will feature over 300 works by both Czech and foreign artists. Additionally,from September 2025,visitors will have the possibility to view the works of the latest winners of the Jindřich Chalupecký Prize,further highlighting the vibrant contemporary art scene in the Czech Republic.
A Legacy of Art and Architecture
The National Gallery Prague, a custodian of over 400,000 works of art, operates within seven historic buildings, each offering a unique space for public exhibitions. Since 1976, the institution has been headquartered in the Trade Fair Palace, a masterpiece of functionalist architecture designed by Josef Fuchs and Oldřich Tyl. This architectural gem not only houses the gallery’s extensive collection but also stands as a testament to the rich architectural heritage of the Czech Republic.
As the Magnus Art collection continues to gain recognition, both domestically and internationally, it serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring value of art in shaping cultural narratives and fostering societal growth.
For art enthusiasts and cultural explorers,the magnus Art collection and the National Gallery Prague offer a glimpse into the dynamic evolution of Czech art,blending history with contemporary innovation.
Interview: Exploring the Impact of J&T Bank’s Magnus Art Collection Donation to the National Gallery Prague
In a historic move, J&T Bank has donated its prestigious Magnus Art collection to the National Gallery Prague, marking a significant milestone in the support of Czech contemporary art. This donation not only highlights the cultural significance of the collection but also sets a precedent for corporate patronage in the arts. We sat down with Valerie Horváth, an art specialist at J&T Bank, to discuss the unique purpose of the collection, its growing financial worth, and the future of Czech art under the stewardship of the National Gallery Prague.
The Vision Behind the Magnus Art Collection
Senior Editor: Valerie, thank you for joining us today. The Magnus Art collection has been described as more than just a collection of artworks. can you tell us about its original purpose and vision?
Valerie Horváth: Absolutely. The Magnus Art collection was never intended as an investment collection. From the very beginning,our focus has been on the integrity of the works and their ability to illustrate the growth of young Czech art during a pivotal time in our culture and society. The collection was curated with the intention of preserving and showcasing the talent of emerging Czech artists, particularly those recognized by the Jindřich Chalupecký Prize.
The Financial Growth of the Collection
Senior Editor: The collection’s financial value has also grown substantially over the years. Does this come as a surprise to you, or was it expected?
Valerie Horváth: While we never set out to create a collection for financial gain, it’s certainly gratifying to see the recognition and appreciation for young Czech art. The fact that the collection’s financial value has increased significantly is a testament to the enormous potential of these artists and their contributions to the global art scene. It reinforces the idea that investing in cultural heritage and supporting emerging talent can yield both artistic and financial rewards.
The Role of the Jindřich Chalupecký Prize
senior Editor: The collection includes works by many Jindřich Chalupecký Prize winners. How vital is this award in shaping the czech art scene?
Valerie Horváth: The Jindřich Chalupecký prize is incredibly important. Since its inception in 1990, it has been a launching pad for many talented artists, providing them with recognition and opportunities to showcase their work. The prize has played a crucial role in nurturing the careers of some of the most influential figures in Czech contemporary art. By including works by these laureates, the Magnus Art collection reflects the vibrancy and innovation of the Czech art scene.
The Future of the Collection at the national Gallery Prague
senior Editor: Now that the collection is being donated to the National Gallery Prague, what does this mean for its future?
Valerie Horváth: This is an exciting new chapter for the collection. The National Gallery Prague is an institution with a rich history and a commitment to preserving and promoting Czech art. By entrusting the collection to the NGP, we are ensuring that these works will be accessible to the public and integrated into the broader narrative of Czech cultural heritage. The upcoming exhibitions, such as 1939–2021: The End of the Black and White Era, will provide a platform for these artists to reach a wider audience and inspire future generations.
A Legacy of Corporate Patronage
Senior Editor: This donation sets a precedent for corporate involvement in the arts. Do you see this as a trend that could grow in the Czech Republic?
Valerie Horváth: We certainly hope so. Corporate patronage in the arts is not as common in the Czech Republic as it is in other countries, but we believe this donation can serve as an example for other private companies. Supporting cultural initiatives not only enriches society but also creates a lasting legacy. by contributing to the preservation and promotion of domestic art, companies can play a vital role in shaping the cultural landscape of the country.
Senior Editor: Valerie, thank you for sharing your insights. The Magnus Art collection’s journey from a private initiative to a public treasure is a remarkable story, and we look forward to seeing how it continues to inspire and shape the future of Czech art.
Valerie Horváth: Thank you. it’s been a pleasure discussing the collection and its impact. We’re excited about the possibilities ahead and the role the National Gallery Prague will play in bringing these works to the public.
For more updates on the Magnus art collection and its integration into the National Gallery Prague, stay tuned to World Today News.
