Eliška Rejčka is to be honored by an artistic work in front of the basilica at Mendlovo náměstí in Brno

Brno - The city is looking for a new design for the space in front of the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary at Mendlovo Square in Brno. The Office of the Architect of the City of Brno (KAM) has announced a competition aimed at finding the best proposal for the transformation of the location, where an artwork in honor of Queen Eliška Rejčka will also be created. The deadline for submission of competition proposals is in March next year, KAM stated on its website.

According to KAM, the space in front of the basilica has become residual, lacking any connection to the square, does not create a coherent impression, and lacks meaningful use and dignified representation considering the cultural and architectural significance of the monastery complex. "The corner should be suitably integrated into the monastery complex while clearly separating itself from the busy traffic junction, either visually or physically, to create a space worthy of its significance," states the document for the competition assignment.

Competitors are to work with the subject area as a whole; the artwork must be created only on city-owned land. Ideally, the chosen solution should motivate the owner of the affected area for further cultivation. Proposals should also appropriately engage with vegetation and consider the position of mature trees. The new artwork, as a tribute to Queen Eliška Rejčka referencing her personality and activity in Brno, should become a natural part of the place. The scale of the artwork must be proportional to the size and character of the new form of the space and should not visually overpower or overshadow surrounding architectural landmarks.

The estimated investment costs for the artwork amount to 7.5 million crowns excluding tax, while the modifications to the public space are expected to cost ten million crowns excluding tax. The main limitations on the use of the area include the protection of the urban conservation area. Additionally, the addressed area lies within the interest zone of the Ministry of Defense.