This week, we were delighted to welcome our colleagues from Bourges 2028 — the European Capital of Culture that will follow Liepāja — for a working visit. Over five inspiring days, we exchanged experiences on cultural accessibility, environmental sustainability, and public participation, while exploring future cooperation between Liepāja 2027 and Bourges 2028.
The visit included a meeting with Liepāja’s Mayor Gunārs Ansiņš and a trilateral discussion with the French Institute in Latvia, exploring ideas for joint projects between Latvia and France.
Thibaut de Martimprey, Head of Accessibility at Bourges 2028, participated as a speaker at the “Culture Renovation” conference, sharing insights on accessibility for people with visual and mobility impairments.
Meanwhile, Christophe Haleb, choreographer, filmmaker, and Artistic Director of La Zouze, met with Liepāja’s young people, presented some of his previous films , and began work on a new documentary film about youth life across several European Capitals of Culture.
We also met with Liepāja’s cultural professionals – from the Liepāja Theatre, Museum, Library, and the Great Amber Concert Hall – to discuss opportunities for international collaboration and capacity building.
A heartfelt thank you to team of Bourges for an inspiring and productive week in Liepāja! See you soon in France!
From October 19 to 21, actors from the Liepāja Theatre, the Liepāja Puppet Theatre, and the Latvia Puppet Theatre are participating in inspiring masterclasses led by choreographer and researcher Dalija Aćin Thelander.
To support the personal growth and skill development of Liepāja 2027 volunteers, a training session for volunteer team leaders was held on October 18, focusing on information-gathering techniques and team-building methods. The training was led by non-formal education trainer Staņislavs Babins.
The Skills Exchange Platform “Skill Market” goal is to promote the preservation, development, and mutual exchange of craft skills among masters from different generations, industries, and communities. Project activities will take place from October 2025 to May 2027.
