Vernon Art Galleries

The Vernon family of art spaces is a unique group of galleries showcasing contemporary art by a range of, mostly Czech, artists. Each space has its own unique feel and mission, but all three blend beautifully to offer a special spin on the Czech art and gallery scene.

“It´s usually younger artists, we like to present newer artists, that may occasionally be well-known abroad,” she explains. “The artists presenting works are slightly known, so we try to present them and help them to be seen.” Faustová says the gallery usually does between seven and eight exhibitions a year using rotating curators.

“Sometimes it´s Monika, sometimes the artists coordinate, we have artists writing, asking for their work to be displayed, and sometimes we ask curators to design something for us,” she says. This method makes for an ever-changing line-up that ensures a great deal of variety.

Through September 31, the Galerie will exhibit “Allein (Alone)” by Petra Polifková. A series of autobiographical paintings, Polifková focused on portraits and places she knows. The title “Alone” is not meant to be melancholy, but more of an individual´s pilgrimage through new places.

“It´s an open space, nonstop, anyone can pass by and see it,” explains Faustová. “The space is for sight specific installations, not paintings or sculptures but conceptual projects.”

Located on the corner of Janovského and Heřmanova in Prague 7, (Galerie Vernon is about two buildings down at Janovského 23) its big shop front windows can easily be mistaken for something else, depending on the project on display. Through September 31, you can stroll by and stop for a look at Markéta Hlinovská´s Podzemí/Underground. A series of paintings cut into black folio, the installation should give the illusion of being able to look above and below ground at the same time.

Hlinovská says about her creation: “Against the background of the situations portrayed it is possible to elaborate stories and raise the question of what caused them and where they end.”

Whether you are in the market to purchase art on not, the Vernon family consistently showcases a unique selection of artists from a variety of different genres. Watching their galleries is an excellent way to stay on top of the emerging Czech contemporary art scene.