The Moravian Gallery in Brno was founded in the 1960s by the art historian and art critic Jiří Hlušička. He died last Thursday, he was 95 years old. Hlušička led the institution for almost three decades until 1989. During his era, it built a collection of paintings and sculptures of Czech modernism with works by Bohumil Kubišta, Emil Filla, Josef Šíma and Antonín Procházka.
According to her, at the beginning of 1959, Hlušička became the head of the picture gallery of the Moravian Museum. Thanks to him, the Moravian Gallery in Brno was established in 1961. “She owes him both for her birth and for his other tireless work and professional care for her reputation,” says Holešová.
Hlušička, who focused on Czech art of the 20th century, was later director emeritus of the Moravian Gallery. In 1989, he was replaced by Marie Dohnalová, after whom Jaroslav Kačer, Kaliopi Chamonikola and Marek Pokorný led the institution. The sixth and current director, Jan Press, has been in office since 2013.
During Hlušiček’s almost thirty-year tenure at the Moravian Gallery, exhibition and publication activities developed along with the creation of collections. “He also increased the popularity of the gallery by organizing cultural and educational programs for the public, including the youth,” adds the spokesperson.
In his publications, Hlušička devoted himself to important figures of modern art associated with Moravia, for example the sculptor Vincenzo Makovská and the painters Jaroslav Králov, Bohdan Lacin and František Foltýn. Together with artist Jan Rajlich, Hlušička participated in the organization of the Brno Applied Graphics Biennale. In 2022, he received the City of Brno Award and became an honorary citizen of the city.
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Art Expert Dr. Helena Nováková
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Nováková. Thank you for joining us today. We’re here to discuss the recent passing of the esteemed art historian Jiří Hlušička, who played a monumental role in the foundation of the Moravian Gallery in Brno. How do you feel his contributions will be remembered in the art community?
Dr. Nováková: Thank you for having me. Jiří Hlušička was truly a pioneering figure in Czech modernism. His vision and commitment to the arts shaped the Moravian Gallery into a vibrant cultural hub. Under his leadership, from the 1960s until 1989, he curated an impressive collection that features the works of artists like Bohumil Kubišta and Emil Filla, enriching the national narrative of modern art.
Editor: It sounds like his impact was multifaceted. Can you share more about the collection he helped build at the Moravian Gallery?
Dr. Nováková: Absolutely. Hlušička recognized early on the importance of promoting modernist artists who were underappreciated at the time. The collection he assembled includes not just paintings but also sculptures that reflect the innovative spirit of the Czech modernist movement. Artists like Josef Šíma and Antonín Procházka found a home in the gallery’s exhibits, thanks to his curatorial choices.
Editor: Why do you think his leadership was so influential for nearly three decades?
Dr. Nováková: Hlušička had an exceptional ability to engage with the evolving art scene. He championed not only established artists but also emerging voices, creating a dynamic dialogue between past and present. His scholarly background as an art historian informed his curatorial decisions, emphasizing context and narrative. This approach allowed the gallery to adapt and remain relevant even during politically turbulent times.
Editor: It’s fascinating how art can serve as both a reflection and a commentary on society. Do you think that Hlušička’s legacy will inspire future generations of curators and historians?
Dr. Nováková: I believe so. His dedication to the preservation and promotion of modern Czech art set a benchmark for future curators. By creating a robust collection and fostering an environment of appreciation for modernism, Hlušička showed us the importance of context in interpreting art. Young curators can draw inspiration from his commitment to balancing artistic merit with cultural significance.
Editor: What message do you think he would want to convey to the next generation of artists?
Dr. Nováková: Hlušička always emphasized the value of authenticity in artistic expression. He would likely encourage young artists to pursue their unique visions wholeheartedly, reminding them that art should be a personal journey. He believed that true art resonates with the audience not just through technique but through the sincerity of the creator’s intention.
Editor: That’s a powerful sentiment. As we reflect on Hlušička’s contributions, what do you think will be the future direction for the Moravian Gallery now?
Dr. Nováková: The gallery undoubtedly has big shoes to fill following Hlušička’s legacy. However, I see great potential for growth. The institution can honor his memory by continuing to explore and exhibit the vast array of modern Czech art while also integrating contemporary practices, possibly collaborating with emerging artists and embracing new media. It will be exciting to witness how they evolve and adapt his vision moving forward.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Nováková, for sharing your insights with us today. Jiří Hlušička’s impact on the Moravian Gallery and Czech modernism will surely be felt for many years to come.
Dr. Nováková: It was my pleasure. His legacy is indeed significant, and I hope we continue to celebrate his passion for the arts.