Artwork Gallery – Magazine Issue 2. Connections

What is it like to be an artist in Latvia – are people interested in art there? Has the
situation changed during Covid?
In Latvia, people like painting. They are
interested in it. Sometimes people argue
sharply about what art and painting should
be. Sometimes it can be incomprehensible.
At the same time, it has its favorite painters,
whose exhibitions are visited by many people.
If they say – I don’t understand art, then you
can ask yourself – do you understand life?
However, one must be tolerant of diversity
in art. You have to think – why and what the
artist wanted to say.
During the flu pandemic, the situation was
complicated. In the fall of 2020, I exhibited
at the exhibition, but it had to be closed
after only 2 weeks. And it was reopened in
the spring. And the following autumn, this
exhibition hall held only a virtual exhibition,
fearing that the exhibited paintings could
not be viewed. The big museums were also
closed at that time. As the pandemic abated,
the museum was allowed to contain a small,
determined number of people.
You have been actively exhibiting and had several publications past years. Was
it always like this, or did you work in the shadows? After all, quite a lot of artists
prefer a closed lifestyle…
Yes, I try to participate and exhibit my paintings.
As I already mentioned, there were many
years when I did not paint at all.
Artists are different – some like an extroverted
lifestyle, while others – withdraw and live in
their own world of ideas in the workshop. I
feel like I fall between these two types. I paint
in solitude, I prefer it that way, even though
there are several people at home, but I have
to be alone for a few hours a day – in my
studio.
Exhibitions are places where you can hang
out with other artists and see their works.
Of course, it is interesting to look at the works
of others on social media on various websites.
New technologies open the possibility for
virtual exhibitions.
But a physically exhibited painting cannot be
replaced by a virtual one. It must be seen in
reality.
What advice would you give to an
aspiring artist?
I cannot give such a general recipe or advice
as in a cookbook. Everything is individual. It
depends on talent, willingness to work, and
living conditions where to realize your dream.
These are not such simple questions.
The material side is also important.
Work is of great importance. Not always
inspired to do it. Therefore, professional skills
and experience are helpful.
Artwork Gallery Magazine |
33