Over 3,000 museum workers and other experts from the field came to the capital in person, and another 2,000 participated in the event online. The Jihlava gallery also had its representation on the spot.

As the theme of the conference already suggests, the whole event was in the spirit of the question of what role museums should play within their own communities. Human rights, overcoming crises in contemporary society, or new technologies were discussed, among others. The culmination of the entire conference was the establishment of a new definition of a museum.

In addition to discussing current issues, this event was also a unique place to meet professionals not only from all over the world, but also within one's own community, which is often quite difficult due to the workload of museum workers.

The conference itself ended with excursions to various corners and institutions of the Czech Republic. We are very happy that, as part of one of these trips, we were also able to welcome a group of conference participants to our gallery. Upon entering the premises of the gallery building in Komenský Street, our international colleagues were welcomed by the fiddle playing by Matěj Kolář, who is one of the most important personalities (not only) of the Jihlava cultural scene. During a short stop in Jihlava, they could visit our current exhibitions, the gallery library (in which we prepared a small exhibition of gallery posters from the past and present), or create a souvenir in the art studio.

We are very happy for this unique opportunity to introduce our institution to museum colleagues from all over the world (among whom was, among others, the leaving ICOM president Alberto Garlandini).

The greatest thanks go to the Czech ICOM Committee for organizing this important event in our country.

“A museum is a not-for-profit, permanent institution in the service of society that researches, collects, conserves, interprets and exhibits tangible and intangible heritage. Open to the public, accessible and inclusive, museums foster diversity and sustainability. They operate and communicate ethically, professionally and with the participation of communities, offering varied experiences for education, enjoyment, reflection and knowledge sharing.”

August 2022