Did you know that Kamenický Šenov is home to the oldest glassmaking school in the world? It is listed in the UNESCO cultural heritage programme. And it was there that Filip Houdek, one of today's most important Czech artists and designers, began his artistic journey. As he will be an important part of the artistic side of Speed Festival, we would like to introduce him to you.
He founded his first design studio at just 20
At the time, he was on a placement in Utrecht and Leerdam in the Netherlands. He wanted a place where he would have room for his independent glassmaking and artistic work, so he founded HG Atelier Design.
“Independent creative work has always been my path. After gaining experience at various companies, I knew I had to work on my own and be independent,” says Filip H.
The artistic studio soon enjoyed great success. It collaborated with prestigious brands such as Louis Vuitton, Moser, Vista Alegre and Baccarat, and names such as Aric Levi and Audemars Piquet.
Together with his brother, he designed a collection of gift items for Louis Vuitton and its VIP clients, and a light fixture and the special LUDWIG collection for Moser's 160th anniversary.
During a placement in Bergamo, Italy, he also ventured into interior design and worked as an interior architect for the fashion brand La Officina Della Moda. “At the time, I incorporated standalone glass pieces into interiors; it was a tremendous experience for me,” recalls Filip H.
At heart, however, he was always an artist above all.
He shares his talent with his brother
Alongside HG Atelier Design, Filip Houdek also founded the HOUDEK.ART studio, the MADE IN BOR art project and GLASSBROTHERS, under which he creates work together with his brother Lukáš.
As an artistic duo, they have enjoyed success not only in the Czech Republic, but also in Monaco, Italy, Germany, France and Belgium. Their works have been exhibited, for example, at the renowned international GOODWOOD ART GALLERY in Antwerp, and can also be found in prestigious galleries and museums around the world.
Works that amazed the world
The brothers' latest art project, PASSION, is dedicated to motorsport. It pushes the boundaries of art in this field and brings two different worlds together through an exceptional approach.
One of the duo's best-known works is undoubtedly the ARMSTRONG light object from the OBSESSION project. This unique object, largely dedicated to the controversial figure of Lance Armstrong, has travelled to numerous exhibitions at home and abroad.
It probably comes as no surprise that in 2023 Filip Houdek was named among the 50 most influential figures on the Czech art scene.
What can you expect from Filip Houdek at Speed Festival?
He created the Eliška sculpture especially for the festival; you will find it next to the Bugatti T35. Filip is also an important member of the organising team. For example, he decides which paintings you will see in the VIP area dedicated to Ferrari and which artworks will be exhibited right in the centre of Česká Lípa.
We are delighted to have secured such an important name for the artistic face of Speed Festival. Whether you love art or are coming mainly for the engines, we believe his work will capture your attention. Aren't cars themselves something of an art form?