The story of Magdalena
Ambassador of Art and Education
The topic of basic art schools has always been close to the world-renowned mezzo-soprano Magdalena Kožená. As a graduate of a basic art school, she fondly and gratefully remembers her first steps in her artistic journey. These positive memories and the recognition of the importance of nurturing children's artistic development grew into a clear decision to dedicate part of her life to this cause, focusing on supporting this unique system that is simultaneously strong and fragile in its exceptionality.
Magdalena Kožená Foundation
In 2016, opera singer Magdalena Kožená decided to personally support the basic art schools in the Czech Republic by establishing a foundation aimed at building the position of art schools as a prestigious and unique system of modern art education. The foundation systematically contributes to the further growth of artistic talent and supports art schools in their artistic and educational activities. A significant part of the foundation's activities also includes supporting art schools in identifying and developing artistically gifted children and youth, whose lives are accompanied by health or social disadvantages. The co-patron of the foundation is the general director of the Czech Philharmonic, David Mareček.
Basic art schools play a key role in the field of art education and the shaping of young talents. The projects of the Magdalena Kožená Foundation are designed to comprehensively support art schools, including financing projects, providing methodological assistance, developing educational programs, connecting art education with practice, and advocating for and fostering collaboration between schools.
"Basic art schools are the roots of our culture, of our love for art. On a global scale, they are a unique educational system that must be cherished, developed, and supported."
Magdalena Kožená
Goals of the Magdalena Kožená Foundation:
PRESENTATION – CONNECTION – SUPPORT
- Presenting art schools as a unique modern educational system of the 21st century and strengthening their respect in society
- Presenting the importance and quality of basic art education in the Czech Republic, with an impact on the general public
- Connecting individual schools and presenting the art school system at professional festivals like ZUŠ Open, as well as other projects at both national and regional levels
- Connecting art education with practice, cooperating with professional artists, cultural, and educational institutions
- Supporting art schools in developing talented children and youth, regardless of their socioeconomic background or possible health handicap
- Supporting art schools in their projects and additional activities that benefit both students and the public
- Promoting innovative approaches in art education
- Supporting art schools in educating the young generation in social responsibility and sensitivity towards the needy through art education
- Supporting art schools in creating spaces for meetings and collaboration between students, teachers, parents, and all those interested in art and nurturing the youngest generation
The goals of the Magdalena Kožená Foundation are achieved through projects.