Writer Pavel Kolmačka won the state award for literature on Sunday evening. The jury awarded him for the novel Canto ostinato: November, experiences of the near winter. Dagmar Hartlová, who has been mediating Swedish and Norwegian literature to the Czechs throughout her life, became the laureate of the State Prize for translation work. The evaluators also emphasized her significant pedagogical activity.
Six other celebrities also received awards from the Ministry of Culture from Sunday’s gala evening at the New Stage of the National Theatre.
“We have excellent authors and creators who, above all in challenging times, and such as we are living in now, bring encouragement and hope,” said Minister of Culture Martin Baxa from ODS. “Among other awards, the State Prize for Literature has an extraordinary position due to its status, and we perceive it as irreplaceable, above all for its modern-day specific tradition, which followed on from the awarding of state prizes in the pre-war Czechoslovak Republic,” he added.
The State Prize for Literature has been awarded on the proposal of a jury appointed by the Minister of Culture since 1995. However, it continues a tradition established in 1920 and interrupted in 1948.
After a recent change in the rules, it evaluates either an important original work of Czech literature, as it was this year, or a lifetime achievement, as it will be next year. On Sunday, Baxa thanked Pavlo Kolmaček not only for his literary work, but also for his brave attitude. Kolmačka, who recently received the Jaroslav Seifert Award, thanked the jury, the editors of the award-winning book and his loved ones.
Dagmar Hartlová, who translated the most works into Czech from Swedish, won the prize for translation. “The translated literature itself has the greatest merit and share in the prize, because Nordic literature has had a special attraction for the Czech reader from the very beginning, which is almost mysterious and inexplicable,” she said.
Dagmar Hartlová became the laureate of the State Prize for translation work. | Photo: CTK
The prize of the Ministry of Culture for the contribution to the theater was awarded to set designer and costume designer Marta Roszkopfová for her unique and inspiring contribution to Czech scenography with significant international influence. Art historian and curator Hana Rousová received the fine arts award for her pioneering interdisciplinary approach, opening up problematic topics and questions, and for her inspiring informal influence on the younger generation.
For music, the conductor Petr Altrichter takes home the award for his lifelong work with domestic and foreign orchestras, for his artistic versatility and authenticity. Daniel Sobotka, director of the Symphony Orchestra of the City of Prague FOK, accepted the award for him.
In architecture, Miroslav Šik received an award for the connection of domestic and world creation, for the inspiring concept of analogical architecture and a significant pedagogical imprint on the thinking of several generations of architects.
Screenwriter and actor Karel Smyczek was awarded for his contribution to cinematography and audiovisual production for his long-term contribution to Czech film and television production, with an emphasis on the authorial courage with which he enriched Czechoslovak audiovisual production in the 1970s and 1980s, and for his merits in his work for children and youth.
In memoriam, the same award was given to director Karel Vachek for his lifelong contribution to the creative exploration of the possibilities of documentary film, exploring its boundaries and overlaps, as well as for his pedagogical work at Prague’s FAMU, which significantly influenced several generations.
Czech Literature Awards: A Night of Stars and Literary Brilliance
Ah, the joys of awards season! Sunday saw the crème de la crème of Czech literature and culture gather like moths to a flame at the New Stage of the National Theatre. Pavel Kolmačka walked away with the State Prize for Literature, clutching his award tighter than your average stage parent clings to their child’s hopes of cultural stardom. His novel, Canto ostinato: November, experiences of the near winter, struck a chord with the jury. I suppose that means we’ll be hearing “Canto ostinato” at dinner parties for the next decade! Either that, or they’ll be using it to impress their Tinder dates.
The awards this year apparently had more glitter than a craft shop explodes, thanks in no small part to Dagmar Hartlová, who was recognized for her impressive translation work. She’s been transforming Swedish and Norwegian literature into Czech, making Nordic tales as approachable as a hot chocolate on a cold winter’s night. Hartlová acknowledged the allure of Nordic literature, describing it as “mysterious and inexplicable.” Well, if we could just explain why it’s so mysterious, it wouldn’t be, would it? Nonetheless, hold your applause for Hartlová’s ability to turn “What does that even mean?” moments into “Ah, I get it now!” revelations.
The Minister’s Praise: A Rhetoric Show
Minister of Culture Martin Baxa, who sounds like someone you’d have a beer with or completely avoid at a family gathering, passionately spoke about the importance of authors in “challenging times.” No pressure, right? The poor authors must feel the weight of the nation bearing down upon them, especially knowing their next book better be filled with encouragement and hope. As if every page of “Canto ostinato” should have inspirational quotes about resilience.
A Tradition Worth Celebrating
Interestingly, the award has been handed out since 1995, but its roots stretch back to 1920. It’s almost as if the Czechs have been too busy celebrating their literary prowess to notice the calendar changed! After some tweaking of rules, next year’s jury will award either an extraordinary original work or a lifetime achievement award. Let’s hope the nominees come with fewer plot holes than my last attempt at writing fiction!
More Than Just Literature!
Six other luminaries were also honored aside from our literary champs. Marta Roszkopfová picked up an award for her theatrical contributions—some may say her costumes steal the show more than the performances, but who are we to judge? Art historian Hana Rousová was also in the spotlight for her interdisciplinary approach, showing that nothing says “I’m cultured” quite like knowing what the heck an interdisciplinary approach is.
The Melodic Tribute
Moving beyond the stage, conductor Petr Altrichter took home an award for his long-standing commitment to orchestral magic. Imagine orchestrating music with “versatility and authenticity”—qualities I somehow lack every time I attempt karaoke. And in architecture, Miroslav Šik was recognized for his innovative concepts. Someone tell him to stop before he dares to plan a building shaped like a banana—because why not?
Honoring the Greats
The evening also had an in memoriam segment for director Karel Vachek, leaving the audience reflecting on a legacy that none of us could possibly hope to achieve while still trying to figure out how to boil an egg properly. His work on documentary film has shaped generations, while I’m just happy if I can convince someone to watch my family’s home videos without cringing.
A Night to Remember
In conclusion, the awards ceremony was a delightful mix of pride, celebration, and perhaps a bit too much pressure for our beloved authors. As we toast to Pavel Kolmačka and Dagmar Hartlová, let’s not forget that behind every award-winning work is a team of editors, translators, and a lot of caffeine-fueled nights. I raise my glass to them—may their pens never run dry and their awards keep coming—preferably with a side of recognition for my future bestselling novel titled “How to Save Your Sanity After a Family Dinner.”
Prominent writer Pavel Kolmačka was honored with the prestigious State Prize for Literature during a dazzling ceremony on Sunday evening. The esteemed jury recognized his remarkable novel, “Canto ostinato: November, experiences of the near winter,” which deep dives into the contemplative realms of the pre-winter season. In a separate but equally momentous achievement, Dagmar Hartlová, celebrated for her lifelong dedication to bridging Swedish and Norwegian literature with Czech audiences, received the esteemed State Prize for Translation Work. The evaluators highlighted her extensive contributions as a pedagogue, emphasizing her influential role in literature education.
Six other distinguished personalities were also celebrated at the gala event hosted at the New Stage of the National Theatre, showcasing the diversity and richness of Czech cultural achievements.
Minister of Culture Martin Baxa of ODS remarked on the invaluable contributions of writers and creators, particularly during these challenging times. “We have excellent authors and creators who, above all in challenging times, and such as we are living in now, bring encouragement and hope,” he articulated during his speech. He stressed the extraordinary significance of the State Prize for Literature, noting its irreplaceable status in contemporary culture as it continues a rich tradition that dates back to the awards established in the pre-war Czechoslovak Republic.
The State Prize for Literature, awarded based on recommendations from a jury selected by the Minister of Culture, has been a hallmark of Czech literary recognition since 1995. However, its roots trace back to a tradition started in 1920, which regrettably ceased in 1948. Following recent modifications to the award criteria, this year’s focus was on recognizing an important original work of Czech literature, while the subsequent year will celebrate lifetime achievements. In an appreciative gesture, Minister Baxa publicly thanked Pavel Kolmaček not only for his literary prowess but also for his courageous stance in the literary sphere. Kolmačka, who recently earned the Jaroslav Seifert Award, expressed his gratitude to the jury, to those behind the success of his award-winning book, and to his loved ones who supported him throughout.
Dagmar Hartlová, recognized for her prolific translations from Swedish into Czech, humbly attributed her success to the captivating quality of the translated literature itself. “The translated literature itself has the greatest merit and share in the prize, because Nordic literature has had a special attraction for the Czech reader from the very beginning, which is almost mysterious and inexplicable,” she explained, reflecting on her deep connection to the works she has brought to life in Czech.
The prize of the Ministry of Culture for the contribution to the theater was awarded to set designer and costume designer Marta Roszkopfová in recognition of her unique and inspiring contributions to Czech scenography, which have resonated on an international scale. Art historian and curator Hana Rousová received the fine arts award for her pioneering interdisciplinary approach, known for addressing challenging topics and inspiring the next generation of artists.
In the music category, conductor Petr Altrichter was honored for his lifelong commitment to both domestic and international orchestras, lauded for his artistic versatility and authenticity. The award was graciously accepted by Daniel Sobotka, the director of the Symphony Orchestra of the City of Prague FOK, on Altrichter’s behalf.
Miroslav Šik received recognition in architecture for his innovative approach that melds domestic and global influences, along with a commendable pedagogical impact on generations of architects who have followed in his footsteps.
Screenwriter and actor Karel Smyczek was awarded for his substantial contributions to cinematography and audiovisual production, particularly through his long-standing commitment to enhancing Czech film and television, with an emphasis on the audacious creativity he introduced to Czechoslovak audiovisual storytelling during the 1970s and 1980s.
In memoriam, the same award was bestowed upon director Karel Vachek, acknowledging his lifelong dedication to the innovative exploration of documentary film’s possibilities, pushing its boundaries and overlaps. Vachek’s impactful teaching at Prague’s FAMU greatly influenced countless aspiring filmmakers throughout the years.
Restigious ceremony was a vibrant celebration of Czech culture, elegantly blending the past with the present. Alongside Kolmačka and Hartlová, other notable figures were recognized for their significant contributions to various artistic disciplines. The evening was not just about awards; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity in Czech society.
Among the honored was Marta Roszkopfová, whose theatrical contributions have left an indelible mark on the stage. Though some might say her costumes outshine the actors, it’s evident that the richness of her work plays a critical role in theatrical storytelling. Additionally, art historian Hana Rousová was celebrated for her interdisciplinary approach, bridging the gaps between different forms of art and knowledge—an accomplishment that elevates the cultural dialogue in today’s world.
Continuing the theme of artistic dedication, conductor Petr Altrichter received accolades for his outstanding commitment to orchestrating music with both versatility and authenticity. His work resonates within the symphonic community, captivating audiences with vibrant performances that transcend the ordinary.
In architecture, Miroslav Šik was commended for his innovative concepts that merge local and global architectural insights. His exceptional work serves as an inspiration for future architects, proving that creativity knows no boundaries.
The in memoriam segment paid tribute to Karel Vachek, a towering figure in the realm of documentary filmmaking. His profound explorations and accessibly teachable methods at FAMU shaped many aspiring filmmakers, establishing a legacy that will influence future generations.
The evening concluded with a reflection on the importance of these awards, not just for the winners but for the entire cultural landscape of the Czech Republic. They serve as vital nourishment for the artistic community and encourage a continued flow of creativity and expression. Through the lens of history and the vigor of contemporary talent, one thing is clear: the arts in the Czech Republic are alive and thriving, a beacon of enlightenment in both challenging and celebrated times.
As we anticipate the upcoming literary and artistic endeavors, let’s celebrate those who continue to inspire through their works, reminding us of the transformative power of storytelling, creativity, and culture. The night resounded with the theme of perseverance and hope—a fitting tribute to the artists dedicated to reflecting the human experience. Here’s to future chapters, notes, and designs—may they be as bold and brilliant as those celebrated during this auspicious ceremony.
