Starting in the early 18th century, a series of organizations were formed in
Prague with an interest in promoting
art and
education. Thanks in part to their efforts, the Academy of Fine Arts was founded by
Imperial Decree on 10 September 1799.
Joseph Bergler the Younger was the first director. It began with instruction in
drawing. The academy was gradually expanded to include programs in
architecture,
painting,
printmaking, and
sculpture, among others. In 1990 drastic reforms were undertaken by
rector Milan Knížák to reorganize the concept and internal structure of the school. By 1991 new media related study programs including
film and
computer animation were added. ==Today==