Birds in Andrejsala
Workshop and exhibition
What have you learnt from the changes that have taken place in Latvia and worldwide?
For five years running the Peahen Studio has been staging various cultural events in Andrejsala, taking part in both Art Days and White Night, and organizing events with DJ participation. In spite of the economic downturn, there is a rise in positive attitudes in society, manifested as mutual tolerance, kindness and empathy, with moral values surpassing material ones; people around us are re-evaluated to separate friends from passers-by. Thanks to these changes, the former growth in relentless consumption of new goods is replaced by the actualization of recycling – taking a new view of old things and places, giving them a new lease of life and saving all kinds of resources. A return to nature and its basic laws is taking place. The political situation in Latvia encourages people to rely on their own strengths and to think and act for themselves; there is prevalent scepticism regarding the state as the framework of society. The state imposes limits (tax policies, bureaucracy, corruption, unfair competition) instead of providing support, and the opportunities it provides are rather more theoretical than practical in nature.
How does your project for SURVIVAL KIT 2 relate to the theme of the festival?
As a part of SURVIVAL KIT 2 we are putting together a creative workshop for decorating plywood birds; the basic idea entails cutting out plywood silhouettes of the species of birds that are found in Andrejsala, and painting them during the workshop. The completed birds will be displayed near the building’s historical façade. Andrejsala is home to 74 species of birds. Some nest here, some stop to feed while in transit or during migration. These bird cut-outs will also symbolize the 70-plus creative individuals and companies which offer their services in Andrejsala in the fields of art, design, video, photography, advertising, entertainment, sports, recreation, sailing, yachting, motoring, retail, catering and museums. The Birds project is our way of offering everyone a chance to get to know the land and history of Andrejsala, as well as the current creative environment of the area – a city within a city.
Why haven’t you left yet?
How strong can a creative person be, to not sell out to well-paid jobs, or not leave home and go abroad to earn some easy money? That depends on the level of enthusiasm and the personality rushing through this creative person’s veins.