Otmar Oliva and His Liturgical Masterpieces
Come and discover with us a story that connects ancient history with modern art. In the historic Church of St. Margaret in Jaroměřice nad Rokytnou, liturgical objects come to life, crafted with sensitivity and a deep sense of detail by the renowned academic sculptor Otmar Oliva. His works – the ambo, the font, the altar, and the sanctuary lamp – are not just elements of the interior, but form a harmonious whole that infuses the sacred space with a new, powerful energy.
Who is Otmar Oliva?
Otmar Oliva (*1952) is an acclaimed Czech academic sculptor whose artistic work is closely linked with sacred art. A native of Olomouc, he came into conflict with the communist regime in the 1970s, for which he was imprisoned. Despite these difficulties, he dedicated himself to art, and his works became highly sought after both in the Czech Republic and abroad. He creates his sculptural and chasing work primarily in bronze and is known for his deep symbolism and original approach to liturgical objects.
Major Works in the Czech Republic and Abroad
Otmar Oliva has a number of significant works and installations to his credit, which testify to his artistic prestige. Among the most famous are:
- The Vatican: He created the decoration for the papal chapel Redemptoris Mater, which includes the papal throne – the first papal throne created since the time of Bernini. He also participated in creating the medal for the 20th anniversary of the pontificate of Pope John Paul II. You can view the work HERE. It is even possible to take a virtual tour online HERE.
- Velehrad: He designed and realized the altar and ambo in the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and Saints Cyril and Methodius. You can read about his work, for example, in this article.
- Prague: He is the author of the new altar, ambo, cross, and baptismal fonts for the Church of Our Lady Victorious (Infant Jesus of Prague). You can learn more about these realizations on the PragJesu.cz website.
- Olomouc: He created a bronze altar with a marble slab for the Church of Our Lady of the Snows. Information about his work in Olomouc can be found on Wikipedia and on the website of the Archdiocese of Olomouc.
- Maribor (Slovenia): He created the interior furnishings for the Church of Our Lady, Mother of the Church.
The Unique Story of Creation and Installation
Watch the entire story of the creation and installation of the liturgical objects in Jaroměřice nad Rokytnou in a special documentary video:
The Story of the Rebirth of the Church of St. Margaret