Latvian contemporary arts presented in Baku
By Nigar Orujova
An exhibition of Latvian contemporary decorative and applied arts kicked off at "Gallery" Art Gallery on November 20.
The "Latvian Contemporary Art: Glass, Textile, Ceramics" exhibition covers Latvian arts that go back to the beginning of the 20th century, but their traditions are rooted in the past.
The exhibition presents a wide review of the development of decorated and applied arts in Latvia based on the creativity of different artists, each of which is a uniquely personal view of the world, each has its own inspiration channels, and each has its own range.
However, there is something important and significant that unites all of them. That's cognition- that man belongs to the nature and universe, accordance between substance and spirit, functional and symbolical, ethnic and human. These values of arts and world outlooks became topical for Latvian artists, and are relayed to spectators not just in Latvia but also around the world through their works.
Reflecting unwavering vital human values, the Latvian artists present modern technical achievements in the applied art in their works, and continue spiritual communications with the most ancient civilizations.
The professional development of the Latvian decorated and applied arts and crafts is connected with the activity of the Latvian Academy of Arts, which is a smithy of artists in various kinds of applied arts.
For instance, the Latvian Academy of Arts' Ceramics department was established some 89 years ago. The Ceramics department's teaching and creative work is interconnected with themes, ideas, and technology development.
Each year five Bachelor of the Arts and four Master of Fine Arts degrees are bestowed by the department. After graduation, these former students actively participate in exhibitions both in Latvia and abroad, establish design studios, and hold art classes in schools.
The Department of Textile Art was established at the Latvian Art Academy at the beginning of 1960s. An increasing number of creative personalities seek self-expression through this interesting branch of art.
The Department of Glass Art was also established at the Art Academy at the same time, thus promoting the education of glass artists. This substantially increased the entry of young glass artists into Latvia's industry and art.
Unlike previous time, when the important task was the industrial production of applicable glass articles, at present the creative fantasy of artists finds its expression in attractively performed environmental objects and exhibition works.