Early Life and Education

Vlastimil Beránek was born on July 3, 1960, in Nové Město na Moravě, Czech Republic. He hails from a distinguished family of glassmakers, the Beránek family, known for their glassworks in Škrdlovice since the 1940s. Beránek’s artistic journey began at the Secondary Art and Design School in Brno, followed by advanced studies at the Academy of Applied Arts in Prague under the mentorship of the legendary Professor Stanislav Libenský.

Career and Artistic Style

Beránek is renowned for his monumental cast glass sculptures, though his repertoire also includes works in bronze, hardwood, and other materials. His sculptures are characterized by their fundamental simplicity and perfect proportions, often exploring the themes of movement and emotion. Beránek draws significant inspiration from nature, particularly the ocean, as well as the elements of fire, air, and earth.

From 1992 to 2008, Beránek managed the family glassworks in Škrdlovice, continuing the legacy of his forebears while also pursuing his own creative ambitions.

Exhibitions

Vlastimil Beránek’s work has been showcased in numerous prestigious exhibitions worldwide. Some notable exhibitions include:

• Czernin Palace, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic (June 2023): Beránek’s sculptures were exhibited in both the palace and its gardens, highlighting his significant contributions to contemporary glass art.
• EXPO 2020 Dubai: Beránek’s sculptures, including the world’s largest polished Bohemian crystal sculpture “Venus” and the 2.3-meter-high “Black Bone” made from 6500-year-old subfossil oak, were admired by over 1.5 million visitors. His works were featured in international press and TV programs, garnering widespread acclaim.
• Etihad Museum, Dubai: Under the patronage of the Czech Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Ministry of Culture of Dubai, Beránek’s sculptures were exhibited alongside works from his student Jaroslav Prosek and others, showcasing the beauty of Bohemian crystal.
• Colombia: A curated selection of Beránek’s sculptures was well received by the Colombian public, with the Ministry of Culture of Colombia recognizing the exhibition as a cultural event of great importance.
  
  

Awards and Recognition

Vlastimil Beránek has received several awards throughout his career, reflecting his status as a master of Bohemian crystal and a significant figure in contemporary glass art. Notable recognitions include:

• Stanislav Libenský Award: This prestigious award is named after his mentor and celebrates excellence in glass art.
• Artist of the Month (October 2020): Awarded by the Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass, this honor highlights Beránek’s contributions to the field and his innovative approach to sculpture.
  
  

Legacy and Influence

Beránek’s work is celebrated for its technical mastery and emotional depth. His sculptures often push the boundaries of applied technology, achieving forms that are both minimalistic and complex. By capturing the movement of nature in motionless glass, Beránek creates pieces that resonate with viewers on a profound level. His influence extends beyond his own creations, inspiring a new generation of glass artists through his teachings and exhibitions.

Conclusion

Vlastimil Beránek stands as a towering figure in the world of glass art. His dedication to his craft, combined with his innovative spirit and deep connection to nature, has earned him a place among the greats of contemporary sculpture. Through his monumental works and numerous exhibitions, Beránek continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of what is possible in glass art.