Riga Transformed: Young Artists Reimagine City Spaces as Living Stages
Riga, Latvia – September 5, 2024 – The familiar streets of Riga are undergoing a subtle but striking transformation this week, as a new exhibition titled Rebuilt invites residents and visitors to experience the city as a series of unexpected, ephemeral stages. Launched today, the project features eight unique scenic installations created by emerging Latvian artists, turning everyday locations into thought-provoking artistic interventions.
The concept, as explained by Martins Kalser, head of the LAA Determination Department and the exhibition’s curator, draws a parallel to the frequently enough-overlooked process of rebuilding in theatrical scenography. “Rebuild denotes scenography transformation in the theater. Sometimes discovered, sometimes hidden. Reconstruction is a component of stage design – just like in music the silence between two notes,” Kalser stated. “In order to understand the set, it must be disassembled and each ingredient is looked at separately.”
rebuilt isn’t about grand, imposing structures; it’s about subtle shifts in perception. the artists – Patricia Amolina, Esmeralda Usas, Janis Platach, Emil Jansons, and Annija Zemīte – have each chosen a “world fragment,” as Kalser describes it, and temporarily altered it to spark reflection and engagement.
The installations are scattered throughout Riga, encouraging exploration and revelation. Visitors following the Rebuilt map (available at homonovus.lv) can uncover:
| Installation Title | Artist | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tauna door | Annija Zemīte | A hidden door offering a glimpse into a private living space, blurring the lines between public and personal. |
| Looking for a home | Jānis Platačs | A refuge representing the search for belonging, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by marginalized groups. |
| This will happen right away | Patricia Amolina | An installation capturing a fleeting moment between a past event and its continued relevance. |
| Three wise | Esmeralda Usas | An evening experience featuring a message conveyed through morse code using three lanterns. |
| Imanta’s Way | Emil Jansons | Details of this installation were not instantly available, but contributes to the overall theme of reimagined urban spaces. |
The exhibition culminates this Friday, September 6th, during Riga’s annual White Night festival, a city-wide party of culture. The installations will be particularly vibrant as they interact with the energy of the White Night events and the activities of the A New Man Festival school members.
Rebuilt represents a compelling example of site-specific art, challenging viewers to reconsider their relationship with the urban environment. It’s a reminder that even the most familiar places hold the potential for surprise, reflection, and a renewed sense of wonder. The project also underscores Latvia’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative contemporary art.
For more information and to access the installation map, visit homonovus.lv.
