Artistic Ceramics in the Plzeň Region 1950–1970

The exhibition Artistic Ceramics in the Plzeň Region 1950–1970 at the West Bohemian Museum in Plzeň maps a distinctive period of Czech design and industry. It traces the development of ceramic art from the 1950s to the 1970s — from the era of nationalization through a period when design began opening to modern influences. Czechoslovakia's participation in Expo 58 in Brussels played a key role, influencing product aesthetics and giving rise to the so-called Brussels style, characterized by lightness, delicate colors, and modern forms. The Plzeň region had a highly developed ceramic industry — from raw material extraction through building material production to fine ceramics. Visitors will see products from the KERAMO Kožlany and Chodovia Domažlice factories, as well as individual pieces from smaller workshops in Plzeň and Kralovice. The exhibition offers a cross-section of work — from elegant beverage sets and vases through small decorative objects to robust stoneware pieces. Works by ceramicist Otto Eckert are included, as well as creations by designers Jindřiška Radová, Květa Sokolová, František Pavlas, and Zdeněk Dítě. In the 1970s, their work moved into public spaces in the form of ceramic walls, reliefs, and fountains. The exhibition is located in Exhibition Hall 2 in Kopecký Park and runs from April 10 to September 6, 2026. The opening reception was held on April 9, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.