Říp – Context and Modernity

A collaborative exhibition project by students and faculty of the Faculty of Art and Design at Jan Evangelista Purkyně University in Ústí nad Labem subjects the historic mountain Říp to a thorough artistic revision. The exhibition is installed to fit the gallery space precisely and seeks answers to the question of what Říp can offer today – whether merely targeted tourism, dubious celebrations of nationalist pride, or esoteric séances, or whether it has genuine potential in contemporary visual art. The project aims to uncover the myths that veil the mountain's face and expose its hidden layers through artistic critique. In 2026, 900 years will have passed since the first mention of the Rotunda of St. George on Říp, and the exhibition enters into the broader context of this anniversary. The opening on May 15, 2026 at 17:00 is part of the Gallery Night "Podřipská", whose programme includes an opening address, accompanying programme by UJEP students, a family workshop, a local music jam session (from 20:00), and a performance by the band DLD – students of the Time-based media studio at UJEP – with electronics connected to visuals (from 21:00). The exhibition runs until September 13, 2026 in the main hall of the gallery.