Egon Schiele Art Centrum

The Egon Schiele Art Centrum was established in 1992 by a group of international art enthusiasts who recognized the deep connection between the controversial Austrian painter and the picturesque town of Český Krumlov. Schiele's mother was born in Krumlov, and the artist himself sought refuge here in 1911, drawn by the town's decaying, melancholic beauty. The museum is housed in a meticulously restored 16th-century Renaissance brewery, offering over 3,000 square meters of exhibition space. The permanent exhibition provides a fascinating look into Schiele's life, featuring photographs, letters, and a selection of his works, while also highlighting the scandal that eventually drove him out of the town. In addition to Schiele's legacy, the Centrum serves as a vibrant hub for contemporary art, hosting rotating exhibitions of 20th and 21st-century artists, making it a dynamic cultural institution in South Bohemia.

Reasons to Visit

• Gain deep insights into the life and inspirations of Egon Schiele, one of the most important expressionist painters of the 20th century.
• Experience world-class contemporary art exhibitions in a stunning historic setting.
• Admire the architecture of the restored 16th-century Renaissance brewery complex.
• Enjoy a peaceful, cultural retreat away from the bustling crowds of the main castle complex.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid visiting with large backpacks, as you will be required to leave them in the cloakroom.
• Do not take flash photography inside the galleries, as it can damage the sensitive artworks.
• Avoid rushing through the exhibits; take time to read the detailed biographical information provided.

Local Transportation Tips

The Egon Schiele Art Centrum is located in the pedestrian-friendly historic center of Český Krumlov. The best way to reach the museum is on foot, as cars are heavily restricted in the Old Town. If arriving by train or bus, it is a scenic 15 to 20-minute walk to the museum. Taxis are available from the main transit stations to the edge of the pedestrian zone.

Travel Etiquette

• Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor inside the galleries.
• Do not touch the artworks or lean on the display cases.
• Follow the instructions of the museum staff regarding photography and bag storage.

Recommended Age Group

The Egon Schiele Art Centrum offers a rich cultural experience that appeals primarily to mature audiences and art lovers.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While strollers can be accommodated, the quiet gallery environment is not specifically designed for infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Neutral. The biographical nature of the exhibits and the mature themes in Schiele's work may not engage younger children, though they might enjoy the large gallery spaces.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. Older teens studying art or history will find Schiele's rebellious life story and expressionist style fascinating.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. A must-visit for adults interested in European art history, expressionism, and contemporary exhibitions.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The museum offers a relaxed pace, seating areas, and a deep dive into early 20th-century art history, making it highly enjoyable for seniors.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The museum is housed in a historic building, but efforts have been made to provide accessibility.
• An elevator is available to access the upper floors of the exhibition spaces.
• Some areas may have uneven flooring due to the historic nature of the Renaissance building.
• Accessible restrooms are located on the premises.

Did You Know?

Egon Schiele's bohemian lifestyle and his habit of employing young local girls as models scandalized the conservative residents of Český Krumlov in 1911, eventually forcing him to leave the town after only a few months.

Cool Statistics

• The museum occupies over 3,000 square meters of exhibition space.
• The building originally served as a town brewery dating back to the 16th century.
• The Centrum was officially opened in 1993, shortly after the Velvet Revolution.