Controversial New Horse Sculpture in Prague Sparks Debate
A sculpture featuring the mythical Czech horse Šemík and a mare was recently installed on a rooftop in Prague's Podolí district, stirring strong public reactions.
About the Sculpture
The provocative piece, titled Šemík Happy End, shows Šemík in an intimate pose with a mare. It was created by sculptor Jakub Flejšar and weighs around 800 kilograms. The installation reinterprets the legend of Šemík—known for saving his master Horymír by leaping from Vyšehrad into the Vltava River before dying from his injuries—by imagining a happier conclusion symbolizing hope and courage.
“Art is meant to make us pause from our routine and evoke emotions, whether delight, surprise, or even annoyance,” Flejšar told Novinky.cz. “I am satisfied that the sculpture is engaging people and sparking discussion.”
Public Reactions and Debate
The artwork has sparked a conversation about public art, taste, and cultural symbolism in Prague. Locals and tourists alike are divided, with some viewing the piece as humorous or inspiring, while others find it vulgar or inappropriate.
Key Points of Discussion
- Interaction of contemporary art with the city's daily life and identity
- The role of public spaces in fostering artistic expression
- How art challenges or reflects cultural values and sensibilities
Artist's Perspective
Jakub Flejšar's intention was to offer a fresh and optimistic narrative for Šemík’s story, encouraging viewers to reinterpret familiar legends through a lens of hope and renewal.
Summary: This rooftop sculpture reimagines Šemík’s legend with an optimistic twist, igniting varied responses and highlighting ongoing debates about the role of public art in Prague’s cultural landscape.
More News
- SERIOUS | Pronunciation in English - Cambridge Dictionary
- Henderson: My hand was killing after that save!
- Yacht Ocean Angel Shows Softer Side to Serious Cruising
- Putin meets Modi as Russia-India ties tested by US pressure
- Popular TV star owes more than $15M in child support, interest, court records say
- Wreckreation dev
- [SUPPORT Definition & Meaning — Dictionary Entry Summary]
- 'The rules of war are very clear': Pete Hegseth's days are numbered as Gary Peters says it's 'pretty clear' a war crime was committed
- Support STRONG en acier – finition blanc mat
- Minor power outage in southern Sask.