Riga Events: Art, Music & Pet Expo – March 2024 Guide
This week in Latvia, arts and entertainment offerings span a wide spectrum, from introspective retrospectives to vibrant celebrations of musical legacy and the charming world of pet expos. Here’s a guide to events unfolding across the country, offering something for every taste.
Laima Eglīte’s “Retrospectives” at Galerija Daugava
From March 11th to April 11th, Galerija Daugava (https://www.galerijadaugava.lv/lv/izstades) hosts a compelling exhibition of paintings by Laima Eglīte. Titled “Retrospekcijas” (Retrospectives), the show presents a curated selection of works from each decade of the artist’s career, spanning from the 1970s to the present day. Eglīte’s function frequently features children, mimes, friends, and their families, reflecting a deeply personal artistic vision. She doesn’t simply depict her subjects; she paints her life, her observations, and her emotional responses to the world around her. The influence of pantomime and physical theatre is evident in her focus on body language and gesture, elements she seamlessly integrates into her visual storytelling.
Foto: Publicitātes foto
The exhibition and the accompanying album dedicated to Eglīte’s work were made possible through the support of entrepreneur and art patron Māris Martinsons. A book signing with the artist is scheduled for March 17th at 4:00 PM, offering attendees the opportunity to acquire a signed copy. Eglīte, who celebrated a significant birthday recently, continues to create art that feels remarkably youthful and dynamic, reflecting a lifetime of experiences and passions. She initially dreamed of a career on the stage, and that early aspiration continues to inform her artistic approach. Notably, Eglīte graduated from the Jānis Rozentāls Art School in 1965 and later studied at the Art Academy of Latvia, where Eduards Kalniņš served as her thesis advisor.
A Journey Through Design: “Art Deco – to the Present Day”
From March 12th to May 17th, the Decorative Arts and Design Museum in Riga (https://www.santa.lv/tema/125534/izstade) presents “Art Deco – to the Present Day: Design and Craftsmanship in France.” The exhibition showcases the defining characteristics of the Art Deco style – bold, symmetrical patterns, clean lines, and aerodynamic designs – and its lasting influence on architecture, furniture, and fashion. The display includes tapestries and furniture from the collections of France’s Mobilier national (National Furniture Fund), alongside a selection of Daum Art Deco glass vases from the private collection of the Esterkin family. Featured in the exhibition is Leoneto Kapjello’s tapestry, Spring (1934).
Foto: Publicitātes foto
Musical Tributes and Operatic Drama
On March 14th, the Cēsis Concert Hall will host a concert-story dedicated to the 90th birthday of Raimonds Pauls. The performance will feature melodies that have become cornerstones of Latvian culture, alongside new compositions inspired by Pauls’ musical world. Artūrs Skrastiņš and Daumants Kalniņš will lend their voices to the performance, accompanied by Matīss Žilinskis and Rihards Plešanovs on piano, as well as the Latvian Radio Big Band, the Sinfonietta Rīga State Chamber Orchestra, the Latvian Radio Choir, and other choral groups.
Foto: Publicitātes foto
Also beginning on March 14th, and running through April 14th, the Latvian National Opera will present Franz Lehár’s operetta Judita in multiple cities across Latvia, including Alūksne, Liepāja, and Cēsis. Directed by Austrian director Gernot Kranner, Judita is described as an operetta with the soul of an opera, blending dramatic love stories, memorable melodies, and comedic moments. The production features Anta Jankovska and Dainis Skutelis, or Anastasija Dolgoņenko and Juris Jope, in the leading roles, alongside a chorus, dancers, and orchestra.
Foto: Publicitātes foto
PetExpo 2026: A Celebration of Animals
For animal lovers, the international pet and zoo industry exhibition, PetExpo 2026, will take place on March 14th and 15th at the Ķīpsala Hall in Riga. The event will feature over 3,000 dogs representing more than 237 breeds, including rare and exotic varieties, competing for championship titles across 20 rings. Cat enthusiasts can enjoy beauty contests, demonstrations, and shows. The exhibition will also showcase exotic birds and farm animals.
Foto: Publicitātes foto
These diverse events offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike, showcasing the vibrant arts scene and unique attractions that Latvia has to offer.