The Vilhelm Purvīš Museum opens ‘Pavasaris’ – Exhibition of Young Artists Award

The Vilhelm Purvīš Museum has recently opened its “Pavasaris” exhibition, showcasing the works of young artists who have received the museum’s prestigious award. The exhibition takes place on the museum’s grounds, specifically along the two-kilometer long landscape path called “Purvīš eyes”. A total of 21 large-format works are on display in the open air, providing visitors with a unique and immersive art experience.

This is the first time that the Purvīša Museum has organized a competition for young artists in collaboration with the Janis Rozentāls Art School of the National Arts Secondary School of the Competence Center for Art Education and the Cēsis City Art School. The competition involved a five-day plein air event and art lectures, during which the young artists had the opportunity to create their own interpretations of the Purvīš landscape.

The establishment of the award for young artists is a tribute to Vilhelm Purvītis, the renowned Latvian artist and founder of the Latvian Academy of Arts. Purvītis himself once received a scholarship for his outstanding performance, and it is important for the museum to continue this tradition. He believed in the importance of providing opportunities for students to travel to Europe and enrich themselves in art, and the museum aims to support and encourage young artists in their artistic journey.

The works of the young artists will be evaluated by an experienced jury, and one artist or association of artists will be awarded a prize of 1,000 euros for a trip to one of the largest European art museums. In addition to the jury’s evaluation, there is also a vote for the audience’s favorite, which can be done online on the website “fondsviegli.lv” or in person at the Purvīš Museum.

The main award ceremony and concert for the “Pavasaris” exhibition is scheduled to take place on October 14, marking the end of the museum season. The jury responsible for evaluating the works includes esteemed professionals from various artistic fields, such as film and exhibition artist Jurģis Krāsons, painter and assistant professor of art science at LMA Ansis Rozentāls, and landscape artist and assistant professor at LMA Sandra Strēle, among others.

The Purvīš Museum holds a significant historical value as it is located in Purvītis’ native house “Vecjauži”. The house was bought by Dutch citizen Margareta Lestradena in the early 1990s, and in 2021, she decided to return the property to Latvian society. The “Viegli” Foundation of Imanta Ziedoņš was entrusted with the responsibility of managing Purvīš’s home, which was officially announced as the new location for the Purvīš Museum on March 3 of last year. Since then, several cultural clean-ups have been organized to restore and maintain the territory of “Vecjauži”, culminating in the first open-air exhibition about the life and work of Vilhelm Purvītis.

In addition to the “Pavasaris” exhibition, visitors can also enjoy the open-air exhibition “Septiņi gudrie” free of charge at the Purvīša Museum in Taurupe Parish. The museum continues to provide a platform for artists to showcase their talent and contribute to the cultural enrichment of the community.

In what ways does the organization of a competition for young artists in collaboration with art schools help nurture and support their artistic growth, as well as foster a strong artistic community

Ort and promote young artistic talent in the same way.

The “Pavasaris” exhibition is a celebration of the creativity and talent of these young artists. The artworks on display range from paintings and sculptures to installations and digital art. Each piece offers a fresh and innovative perspective on the Purvīš landscape, showcasing the artists’ unique artistic visions and techniques.

One of the highlights of the exhibition is the open-air setting. The artworks are showcased along the “Purvīš eyes” landscape path, allowing visitors to experience the art in a natural and immersive environment. This creates a dynamic interaction between the artworks and the surrounding nature, enhancing the overall art experience.

Organizing a competition for young artists in collaboration with art schools is a significant step for the Purvīša Museum. By providing a platform for young artists to showcase their work, the museum is not only nurturing and supporting their artistic growth but also fostering a strong artistic community.

The establishment of the award for young artists is a way to pay homage to the legacy of Vilhelm Purvītis. Purvītis believed in the power of art education and the importance of providing opportunities for young artists to develop and excel. By continuing this tradition, the museum is honoring Purvītis’ vision and ensuring that his legacy lives on.

The “Pavasaris” exhibition at the Vilhelm Purvīš Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in discovering the talents of young artists. The combination of the open-air setting and the diverse range of artworks provides a unique and captivating art experience. This exhibition not only highlights the creativity of these young artists but also reinforces the museum’s commitment to supporting and promoting artistic talent.