Intro

Name

Beautiful Work：Czech Crafts Exhibition

Period

2026-04-02 ~ 2026-08-23

Venue

3F, National Taiwan Craft Research and Development Institute-Taipei Branch

Address

No. 41, Nanhai Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City

The exhibition on view presents a selection of objects devoted to craftsmanship, folk art, and creativity within sustainable design, produced in recent years. Rooted in careful making and material knowledge, the works reflect traditions shaped by place, labor, and time. Beautiful Work cultivates creative dialogue between masters of traditional craftsmanship and designers to develop new products and revitalize traditional craft practices for a new generation of makers. The long-term project approaches tradition as an evolving accumulation of the past, continually renewed to offer timely responses to the demands of a fast-paced world. Nearly forgotten processes are approached with humility toward historical legacy, alongside innovation and openness to contemporary culture, technology, and utility. The showcase centers on collaboration between Czech designers and masters of traditional crafts, resulting in a series of applied objects that combine timeless, traditional forms and decorative elements with contemporary design sensibilities. This joint approach and exchange of ideas across generations demonstrate a shared philosophy in shaping objects that honor cultural heritage while meeting modern expectations. Over the past three years, a large number of successful collaborations have grown into an active exchange that emphasizes cultural dialogue, mutual respect, and care for materials. Beyond the physical objects, the project proposes a way of thinking that values slowness, attention, and responsibility, principles that resonate strongly within Taiwanese traditions of craft, repair, and harmony with nature. Beautiful Work invites visitors to encounter a facet of Czech visual culture through making, while also recognizing shared values across cultures. It offers a contemplative space to reflect on how craft shapes not only the objects that accompany daily life, but also the ethics, relationships, and pride embedded within them.

Artworks

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TURNED WOOD ΤΟΥ BLOCKS

Design: Adam Strach, Faculty of Fine Arts - Brno University of Technology Craftwork & Consultation: Adam Strach and Mr. and Mrs. Jirsa

WEDDING DRESS

Design: Viktoria Eusebio, Higher Vocational School of Textile Crafts in Prague Craftwork & Consultation: Viktoria Eusebio

VASE WITH THE JAROSLAV SEIFERT'S POEM

Design: Rony Plesl Craftwork & Consultation: Karel Hanák

ARMCHAIR

Design: Petra Kmošťáková, Faculty of Art and Design - UJEP in Ústí nad Labem Craftsmanship: Iveta Dandová (cattail weaving)

BLACK POTTERY DINING SET

Design: Radana Krausová, Faculty of Fine Arts, Brno University of Technology (technique of smoked ceramics) Craftwork & Consultation: Mgr. František Hynšt

DINING TABLE PENDANT LIGHT

Design: Jan Lechner, Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague Craftwork & Consultation: Miroslav Štěpánek

BOBBIN LACE

Design and craftsmanship: Jaroslav Prášil (Belgian lace / bobbin lace)

CLOTHING ACCESSORIZES

Design: Marie Cikhartová, Faculty of Architecture, Czech Technical University Craftsmanship: Jelínek Traditional Saddlery (leather + artistic blacksmithing)

DRESS FOR BROKENHEARTED WOMAN

Design: Sister Conspiracy Studio Craftwork: Alice Klouzková, Jana Jetelová

#10

WALL LIGHT

Design: Helena Pernicová, Faculty of Fine Arts, Brno University of Technology Craftsmanship: Pavel Ondra (splitting spruce wood along the grain)

About the Curation

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Exhibitor

National Taiwan Craft Research And Development Institute

The National Taiwan Craft Research and Development Institute (hereafter referred to as "the Institute"), under the Ministry of Culture, is dedicated to promoting craft culture and supporting the craft industry. Its core responsibilities include craft research and innovation, talent cultivation, craft testing, publications and exhibitions, collection and value-added applications, local craft development, craft aesthetics education, industry guidance, brand development, product certification, and international cooperation. Craft is deeply embedded in everyday life and centered around people. Taiwan boasts a rich and diverse craft culture that continuously evolves in response to a changing world. While the spirit of craftsmanship must be preserved, it must also adapt to modern times. The core values of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence remain unchanged. These values reflect the collective effort of the Taiwanese people, who have worked tirelessly to build a thriving and prosperous Taiwan. The Institute’s philosophy is centered on "living"—advocating for the idea of "living crafts and crafts in living." This approach encourages the integration of craftsmanship into daily life, revitalizing its essence. It embodies the "SLOHAS" spirit of craftsmanship, promoting a joyous lifestyle that aligns with contemporary values through both simplicity and depth. “SLOHAS” — an acronym for Simplicity, Lifestyle, Originality, Health, Aesthetics, and Sustainability— seeks to uncover opportunities for creativity while offering individuals a healthy and aesthetically enriching way of life. In essence, the “SLOHAS” spirit represents a virtuous artistic cycle, progressing from S to S — from simplicity to sustainability. By addressing key issues such as ESG, SDGs, and carbon neutrality, and through the concept of circular and sustainable "ESG for Craft," the institute aims to enhance public welfare and foster shared societal values through crafts. It aspires to beautify both the hearts of the people and Taiwan through craft, and to nurture cultural growth and a flourishing craft economy. Ultimately, it aims to present Taiwan's distinctive craft identity as a compelling representation of our nation to the world.