Artěl, umění pro všední den 1908–1935

An extensive book, published to mark the 100^th anniversary of the establishment of Artěl - one of the most outstanding Czech institutions specialising in applied arts and design during the first half of the 20^th century. In four essays, the publication familiarises the reader with the association’s creative endeavours that lasted a quarter century, and presents works preserved to this date, bearing the prestigious Artěl trademark, in a series of ten catalogue sections arranged according to the type of material used. Founded in Prague in 1908, Artěl brought together prominent figures of the Czech art scene. Initially, the association focused on design and production of minor art for everyday use – small functional and decorative items made of wood, ceramic, metal and other materials. Over the years, it extended its activities to include comprehensive designs of interior spaces, both private homes and commercial interiors. An array of diverse views and trends emerged throughout Artěl’s existence, yet all invariably pursued a common goal: to introduce a modern aesthetic outlook into the field of applied arts and to help cultivate household design and the residents’ lifestyles. True in the past and today, Artěl takes its rightful place in Europe’s modern art and design movement, alongside the artistically inspiring Wiener Werkstätte in Austria and the Bauhaus in Germany. The leading figure of the association was Pavel Janák, to whom the publication devotes an entire study. The book is completed with portraits of artists, a bibliography and index.