Programme Artistic Vision

Liepāja is a city of paradoxes. Here, the brisk northerly winds meet sun-warmed beaches, while metal coexists with lace. The secluded Karosta with its military history contrasts with the vibrant energy of freewheeling rock music. Industry thrives alongside leisure, and these opposites intertwine to create the distinctive character of our city. The spirit of (un)rest has shaped Liepāja’s urban identity and cultural landscape over the years. In a world increasingly dominated by standardisation and globalisation, how do we retain our authenticity? Through this thematic line, we will discover the paradoxes that define Liepāja, exploring our rich heritage and sharing our unique story with the world.

With a vivid line-up of events of this program, we all together will embark on a journey through the land of (un)rest—Liepāja, Kuldīga, and South Kurzeme—seeing them through “new eyes.” Together, we’ll dive deep into the heart of these regions, unveiling their rich identities and the colourful kaleidoscope of their communities. Let’s set sail on a rediscovery of who we are and how our stories intertwine: from neighbour to neighbour, colleague to colleague, townsperson to countryperson, young adult to senior citizen, and fisher to dressmaker, poet to doctor. This is a quest to explore the profound joy and collective responsibility of creating together in our towns, rural havens, and municipalities. With open hearts and curious minds, we’ll explore how to live harmoniously within our communities, ignite creative brainstorming, and celebrate the simple joys of life right here, where we call home.

Embraced by the Baltic Sea, forests, pastures, and lakes, Latvia is a haven of natural beauty and strength—a true treasure of the Earth. Yet, we face a stark reality: the relentless depletion of our resources, both locally and globally, has escalated into an acute natural crisis. This disregard for our environment has taken its toll, not only on nature but also on our bodies and minds, entangling us in a chaotic cycle of consumption that disrupts our physical and mental balance. Through this thematic line, we embark on a quest to find harmony between our human needs and the health of our environment. Our mission is to cultivate a symbiotic relationship between nature and humanity. We will forge connections between science, innovative technologies, green entrepreneurship, and the arts, actively involving our communities in the (un)rest land to drive meaningful change. Through exchanges, artistic, and educational activities, we aim to restore equilibrium among our body, mind, and surroundings. Together, we’ll embrace the philosophy of deliberate modesty as a sustainable way of life.

The extraordinary shifts triggered by rapid technological advancements, climate change, and global upheavals highlight the urgent need for us to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. Innovation, fuelled by engaged and creative communities, serves as a sustainable engine for progress—not just in bustling metropolises but also in the heart of rural areas. This thematic line aims to bridge the gap between online and offline domains, uniting diverse generations and sectors to uncover the needs and opportunities of the future. Through imaginative probability games in art, design, and educational projects, we will ignite our collective creativity and spark conversations about the legacy we wish to leave behind not only for Kurzeme but for the world at large.