Milan Knížák

Last updated: July 30, 2026
Portrait of Milan Knížák
Milan Knížák was a prominent Czech artist, musician, and performer who passed away at the age of 86. Throughout his influential career, he made significant contributions to the arts as a visionary creator and cultural leader. He served as the rector of the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague from 1990 to 1997, helping to shape the next generation of creatives during a pivotal time. Later, Milan Knížák held the position of director of the National Gallery Prague from 1999 to 2011, overseeing the institution and its prominent collections. His multifaceted career spanned visual arts, musical performance, and major administrative roles in Czech cultural life. Milan Knížák is remembered for his extensive dedication to the arts, education, and gallery management. His legacy endures through his expansive artistic output and his leadership within prestigious Czech cultural institutions.