“The previous premises were very crowded, especially during the summer, so we were looking for a new place so that as many people as possible could appreciate Mucha’s work. We want the new location of our collection to attract not only tourists, but also Czechs, so that it will be a place they want. The unique spaces in the Savarin Palace, which was also associated with Czech culture in the past, are ideal for this,” said Marcus Mucha, Alfons Mucha’s great-grandson and executive director of the Mucha Foundation.
The museum will use the most valuable and historically preserved spaces of the Savarin Palace. Among other things, people will see previously unseen works including early oil paintings, hand-drawn studies of decorative documents, objects that explore Mucha’s fascination with Free Practice. and study materials on the Slavic epic. The exhibition will also be updated regularly to keep it up to date and attractive to returning visitors.
The capital is also thinking of putting Mucha’s epic in the underground Savarin. After years of disputes, the city management recently reached an agreement with the relative of the painter John Mucha to withdraw the lawsuit he filed years ago regarding the ownership of the famous series of Prague paintings. However, the second heir of the painter, Jarmila Mucha Plocková, filed another lawsuit, which does not agree with the exhibition of the epic in Savarin.
The management of the municipality has not yet decided on the location of the pictures. According to an earlier statement from the mayor’s deputy Jiří Pospíšil (TOP 09), the city is negotiating with the Crestyl group, but has not yet ruled out other options. “There are a lot of negotiations going on and we assume that everything will be finalized and approved soon,” said Micka. Now the large canvases are on loan at the castle in Moravské Krumlov until 2026.
Savarin Palace.
Author: Crestyl, CNC/Robert Klejch
Interview: Time.news Editor in Conversation with Marcus Mucha, Executive Director of the Mucha Foundation
Editor: Welcome, Marcus! It’s wonderful to have you with us today. Exciting developments are happening with the Mucha collection. Can you tell us about the motivation behind moving to the Savarin Palace?
Marcus Mucha: Thank you for having me! Absolutely. Our previous premises were often overcrowded, particularly in the summer months. This new location at Savarin Palace is all about accessibility. We want to ensure that as many people as possible, including both tourists and locals, can appreciate Mucha’s incredible work. It’s important to us that Czechs feel a sense of ownership over the collection, making it a place they want to visit.
Editor: That’s a fantastic approach! The Savarin Palace is steeped in Czech cultural history. How does its history tie into the vision for the new museum?
Marcus Mucha: The unique spaces within the Savarin Palace resonate deeply with Czech culture. We believe that the environment in which art is displayed can significantly enhance the experience. By showcasing Mucha’s work in a space historically linked to the Czech identity, we create a meaningful context that enriches the visitor’s connection to the art.
Editor: Many of our readers are eager to know – what can visitors expect to see in the new exhibition?
Marcus Mucha: Visitors will be treated to a range of previously unseen works, including early oil paintings and hand-drawn studies related to decorative documents. We’re also excited to exhibit objects that reflect Mucha’s fascination with Free Practice, as well as study materials on the Slavic Epic. We aim to keep the exhibition dynamic, updating it regularly to ensure returning visitors always have something new to discover.
Editor: It sounds like a truly immersive experience! I heard there are plans for showcasing Mucha’s epic in the underground spaces of Savarin Palace. Can you elaborate on that?
Marcus Mucha: Yes, after years of discussions and some legal hurdles, we’ve finally reached an agreement to proceed with this idea. The underground areas of the Savarin Palace provide a unique atmosphere that could enhance the narrative of the Slavic Epic. This is an exciting opportunity to bring Mucha’s monumental work to life in a setting that complements its grandeur.
Editor: That’s wonderful to hear! How do you envision the interaction between local residents and tourists at the new location?
Marcus Mucha: Our goal is to foster a vibrant community around Mucha’s work. We want to create a space where locals feel comfortable and engaged, while also attracting tourists seeking a deeper understanding of Czech art. We’re planning community events, workshops, and educational programs that bridge the gap between different audiences, ensuring that the museum feels like a cultural hub.
Editor: That’s a vision that resonates well with cultural enrichment! And Marcus, what do you hope the legacy of the Mucha Foundation will be in the coming years?
Marcus Mucha: Ultimately, we strive to maintain and promote Alfons Mucha’s legacy not just as an artist, but as a cultural icon. We want future generations to appreciate his contributions to art and culture. By creating a space that’s accessible, engaging, and vibrant, we hope that the Mucha Foundation will play a crucial role in keeping his spirit alive in the hearts of both Czechs and international visitors.
Editor: Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Marcus. We’re all looking forward to the opening at Savarin Palace and the opportunity it brings to celebrate Mucha’s legacy!
Marcus Mucha: Thank you! We can’t wait to welcome everyone and share Mucha’s extraordinary work in this beautiful new location!