Artoleč: A Symposium That Connects Art, Nature, and Community

Publikováno 03. 09. 2025

In late July and early August, the second annual art symposium Artoleč took place in the picturesque landscape of South Bohemia. This week-long event provided a unique opportunity for invited artists, who found an ideal setting for focused creation, mutual inspiration, and discovering the beauty of the surrounding nature. The symposium confirmed that in today's fast-paced world, the slow, direct interaction between artists and their environment holds irreplaceable value.

One of the project's main goals is to connect the art scene with the local community and actively enrich the region's cultural life. This was fulfilled during the concluding public exhibition on August 2nd at the Chapel of St. Catherine in Nová Bystřice. Visitors had a unique chance to view works created directly during the symposium, gaining insight into the creative process and the atmosphere in which the artists worked.

The symposium was organized by a talented trio: MgA. Hana Sommerová, MgA. Eliška Hanuš, and Vlastimil Hanuš. These creators not only coordinated the entire event but also actively participated in the creative process themselves. Their dedication and vision were reflected in the smooth execution and inspiring atmosphere that prevailed throughout the week. It should be emphasized that Hana Sommerová and Eliška Hanuš, along with artist Žofie Kumštová, are also part of the Young Real Art gallery, which has long presented and supported their work. This collaboration demonstrates that local artistic initiatives can have strong backing and can thrive with the support of established galleries.

The symposium participants included a spectrum of prominent figures from the Czech art scene, such as Ondřej Roubík, Matěj Liška, Radek Dětinský, Pavel Kytner, and Žofie Kumštová. The organizers—Eliška Hanuš, Hana Sommerová, and Vlastimil Hanuš—also actively contributed, and theorist Nataša Hand added to the dialogue and reflection. The diversity of creators ensured a dynamic exchange of ideas and approaches, which was reflected in the final works.

Artoleč thus becomes much more than just a place for creation. It is a platform where not only artworks are created but also new connections, friendships, and fruitful collaborations. The project fulfills its goal of connecting the artistic community with the region, showing that culture and art can be a powerful engine for development and enriching life in the countryside. We look forward to the next year and the new creative discoveries that Artoleč will bring.