The Regional Gallery of Fine Arts presents the new permanent exhibition + – zlín
The exhibition offers a comprehensive look at art, architecture and design through over three hundred artifacts, delving deeply into Zlín's rich cultural history. It reflects a central theme of contrasts, highlighting the opposing forces that have shaped and continue to influence the city – from industrial progress to the enduring values associated with nature and tradition.
Two Parts, Two Perspectives
The exhibition is divided into two thematic sections, each offering a unique perspective on Zlín's identity. The first, or “right” section, explores the story of industrial growth and modernization, primarily shaped by the legacy of the Bata company. This area features models of iconic buildings, showcasing Zlín’s transformation from a small town into a thriving center of industry and modern architecture. For example, visitors can view a model of the Bata skyscraper, one of Europe’s first high-rise buildings, as well as the monumental work by F. L. Gahura – the Tomas Bata Memorial. The halls are filled with major works by key Zlín designers like Vincenc Makovský, Zdeněk Kovář, and František Crhák, embodying the modernist approach to art and design that brought Zlín international recognition.
The second, or “left” section, focuses on fine art and develops two central themes. The first theme centers on landscapes, portraying nature not only in its raw power but also as a mirror of human experiences, reflecting personal memories and inner emotions as perceived by artists from the late 19th to the 20th century. The second theme is dedicated to the human subject, spanning from early modernist attempts to contemporary interpretations. This approach delves into both the human figure and a deeper perception of reality, oscillating between realistic representation and pure imagination. Visitors can view works by well-known Czech artists, such as Bohumil Kubišta, Toyen, Josef Čapek and Jindřich Štyrský.
The Meaning Behind the Exhibition's Name
The title of the exhibition “+ − zlín” is a metaphorical expression that captures the dynamic and relative nature of opposing concepts. It reflects the interplay between rationality and emotion, standardization and uniqueness, organization and spontaneity, mass appeal and individuality, change versus permanence, and speed contrasted with depth. These contrasts define Zlín's unique identity and mirror the evolving characteristics of the city, shaped by both its industrial heritage and its deep-rooted connections to nature and tradition.
Artworks Come to Life Before Your Eyes
A highlight of the new exhibition is an immersive mobile app with augmented reality, developed by the Little Greta agency. This app offers visitors an entirely new way to experience the exhibition. Through augmented reality, users can explore hidden layers within artworks, listen to commentary on exhibits, or travel through time to view Zlín during various stages of its development. This innovative addition brings new dimensions to the art and allows visitors to explore the pieces in an engaging, interactive manner.
The exhibition is located on the 2nd floor of Building 14 in the BATA INSTITUTE, enhancing the show’s industrial ambiance. The spatial design of the exhibition was created by visual artist, exhibition architect, and curator Zbyněk Baladrán. His approach connects the rationality of the space with the artwork, helping visitors grasp the ideas behind each piece. The graphic design of the exhibition is done by designer and art director Lukáš Kijonka.
The Regional Gallery of Fine Arts in Zlín is open daily (except Mondays) from 10 am to 6 pm, welcoming both art enthusiasts and visitors eager to explore deeper layers of Zlín’s identity through the exhibition "+ − zlín".
See more exhibition photos on the Gallery’s page.
