Kampa Museum

The Museum Kampa, located on the enchanting Kampa Island in Prague, is a jewel of modern and contemporary art that houses one of the most significant collections of works from Central Europe. Inaugurated in 2003, the museum is located in the Sova Mills, a historic building that has undergone several transformations over the centuries before becoming a culturally significant center. The foundation of the museum is attributed to Meda Mládek, a Czech art patron, and her husband Jan Mládek, whose contribution to the promotion of Czechoslovak artists was invaluable. The history of the Sova Mills dates back to the 14th century, with the first documented mentions dating back to 1393. Over the centuries, the mills have been rebuilt and renovated several times, transitioning from a Gothic to a Renaissance style and eventually becoming a modern industrial structure in the 19th century. After various changes of ownership and uses, the building was finally designated to house the Museum Kampa, thanks to the efforts of Meda Mládek. The museum’s permanent collection is mainly dedicated to the work of František Kupka, a pioneer of abstract art, and Otto Gutfreund, an important Czech cubist sculptor. These artists represent the pinnacle of Czech modern art, and their works are displayed in a way that highlights the evolution of their style and their impact on European art. Kupka, in particular, is known for his innovations in abstract art and his bold use of color and form to explore spiritual and philosophical themes. A distinctive feature of the Museum Kampa is its outdoor sculpture, which includes works by prominent contemporary artists. Among these, Magdalena Jetelová’s famous giant chair has become an icon of the museum and a symbol of the creativity and artistic innovation that the museum represents. This sculpture, visible from afar, attracts visitors and invites them to explore the museum and its surroundings. An interesting anecdote concerns the museum’s founder, Meda Mládek. After living for many years in the United States and France, where she and her husband collected a vast collection of Czechoslovak art, Meda decided to donate their collection to the city of Prague. This gesture of generosity was motivated by the desire to preserve and promote Czech artistic heritage, which was at risk of being forgotten or dispersed. Meda Mládek, until her death in 2022, remained an influential figure in the art world, continuing to support the museum and promote Czech art internationally. The museum’s location on Kampa Island adds an additional level of charm. The island, situated between the Vltava River and an artificial canal, is a picturesque area with a rich and varied history. Its cobbled streets and green parks offer an ideal setting for an art museum, creating a tranquil and stimulating atmosphere for visitors. The Museum Kampa fits perfectly into this setting, offering a place where art and nature meet in harmony.