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“We are glad that the artist Andris Vītoliņš has returned to the Liepāja Museum's large exhibition hall. Andris Vītoliņš strikes a chord with his colors; his works are multifaceted, alive, expressive, and with a sense of rhythm,” said Dace Kārkla, Director of the Liepāja Museum, at the opening of the exhibition.

Nauris Lazdāns, Deputy Head of the Liepāja Culture Department, also expressed his joy and gratitude, “We are delighted that Andris Vītoliņš has returned to Liepāja with a full-scale exhibition in the year of the 400th anniversary of Liepāja.”

At the end of the opening ceremony, the artist invited everyone to take a guided tour, where they could learn not only about the practical and technical aspects of painting but also about the philosophical approach of the works of art, their stories – what lies beyond greatness.

In the exhibition at the Liepāja Museum, artist Andris Vītoliņš encourages to conceive of the digital tools and systems of the twenty-first century, which are increasingly beginning to replace the primacy of human thought. On the one hand, these are systems that we trust to bring order and convenience, but on the other, according to the artist, they also pose a threat to humanity’s independence and survival.

When creating the exhibition, A. Vītoliņš asked several questions: “Who is really behind this power? Who is running the system? And how long will we be able to tolerate the fact that society’s overall level of intelligence is gradually degrading?”

The artist believes today’s digital media and technologies are aggressively fragmenting our perception. “In this era, the ability to see the “big picture” is becoming a survival skill – both at an individual and societal level. However, do we still understand what is behind this great power? Who is pulling the invisible strings behind the scenes?” asks the artist.

“When he talks about “greatness,” Andris Vītoliņš wants to distinguish between power and strength. For him, greatness is something higher – more philosophical, perhaps even sacred. It is a case of a vacuum forming and noble ideas disappearing, quickly filled by primitive, loud, and empty thoughts. When the holders of power lack big ideas and overarching goals, power becomes a blunt struggle and manipulation. Complex structures and systems emerge, often self-serving.

“And again, the questions arise: who controls this system? Do we believe in it? Can we resist it? And is it possible that under certain circumstances this power, which at first seems unshakable, itself collapses, leaving room for a new one?” artist Andris Vītoliņš reflects.

The exhibition “What Lies Beyond Greatness?” is an invitation to ask these questions, to look beyond the fragments and see the connections – even where they initially seem hidden.

Andris Vītoliņš exhibition “What Lies Beyond Greatness?” will be on view at the Liepāja Museum, 16/18 Kūrmājas Avenue, until May 18, 2025. The brewery “Labietis” supports the exhibition.

Opening hours – Wednesday to Sunday, 10.00–18.00. More information: www.liepajasmuzejs.lv.

Photos from the opening: HERE (By: Kārlis Volkovskis)

Rasa Zālīte,
Liepāja Museum
Public Relations Specialist
Mob. +371 22333723
E-mail: rasa.zalite@liepaja.lv