Prague Art Scene Faces Political Uncertainty as Funding Cuts and Government Pressure Mount

Since December 2025, billionaire Andrej Babiš has been at the helm of the Czech Republic for his second term, leading a coalition on the right. The National Gallery, which is commemorating the 230th anniversary of the Society of Patriotic Friends of Art, has experienced budget reductions since the pandemic began. A 7% cut in staff was enforced by the previous administration. Notable exhibitions have showcased Czech artists, with a 2019 Giacometti retrospective attracting fewer than 50,000 visitors, while a 2023 show featuring Petr Brandl drew an audience of 80,000. The gallery also manages the Czech and Slovak Pavilion at the Venice Biennale, showcasing 'The Silence of The Mole.' In 2024, Slovak Culture Minister Martina Šimkovičová dismissed significant cultural figures, sparking concerns of similar actions in Prague. The Stalin open-air cultural center in Letná Park is currently facing threats of closure but remains operational for now. The gallery Hunt Kastner illustrates the increasing insecurity within the arts sector. The Czech Centre in Moscow has reopened, whereas Galerie Fotograf Zone has lost its funding after 25 years. Meanwhile, public advocacy has successfully garnered support for the queer art space Světová 1 following a funding denial.