The Moravian Gallery in Brno will be led by Jan Press, who succeeded in the competition

Brno - Jan Press will lead the Moravian Gallery in Brno, the largest art museum in Moravia. The current project manager and head of the economics and operations department won the competition announced by the Ministry of Culture. Markéta Ševčíková, the ministry's spokesperson, told ČTK today.
    The director Marek Pokorný voluntarily left the Moravian Gallery last year after leading it since 2004. The ministry announced a selection procedure, receiving five applications. The commission selected two suitable candidates. The winner was then determined by the Minister of Culture Alena Hanáková (TOP 09 and STAN).
    Press wants to continue Pokorný's work. "The Moravian Gallery does not need to be redefined or seek a new identity," he told ČTK. According to Press, the gallery under Pokorný's leadership was a museum of European parameters, which it should remain. The new head would like to work on external communication, refresh and invigorate the visual style, and pay greater attention to artistic events in Brno and Southern Moravia.
    The exhibition plan will include more of the core curators' own projects. The new director will also emphasize accompanying programs and various leisure activities at the gallery. According to Press, the museum must also adapt to the current economic situation.
    The Moravian Gallery in Brno manages three buildings in the city center - the Museum of Applied Arts, the Pražák Palace, and the Governor's Palace. It offers visitors permanent exhibitions of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, as well as temporary exhibitions. Additionally, it takes care of the Jurkovič Villa in Brno-Žabovřesky and the birthplace of Josef Hoffmann in Brtnice near Jihlava.
    The Governor's Palace has needed extensive renovation for several years. Until sufficient funds can be secured, the gallery wants to open the building with its collection of old art more to live culture and public life and strengthen its role in urban space. The new director plans changes in the use of the palace starting this May.
    Press studied museology and art history at Masaryk University in Brno. Before joining the Moravian Gallery, he worked at the Brno Diocesan Museum.