In Ignalina, people often remark that the town’s beautiful, green public spaces lack small architectural elements and sculptures that could better reveal the character of this cozy, lake-surrounded little town. Of course, there are already some artworks — the old stone sculpture “Ramybė” (“Tranquility”), “The Cyclist” by J. Grunda, and the wooden sculpture based on the Ignalina legend by G. Černius, which has become a symbol of the town. Yet there is still a longing for something new — free, playful, and eye-catching.
Recently, residents have been hearing about exciting plans and even five new sculptures created by professional artists that will adorn the town this autumn. The first of them arrived this past summer: sculptor Albertas Danilevičius’s “Girl”, affectionately called “Little Seagull” (Žuvėdrytė) by the artist himself. Delicate and charming, she stands modestly in a small square near Laisvės (Freedom) Square.
During the winter, Albertas Danilevičius also created reed sculptures that now decorate the shores of Lake Lūšiai in Palūšė, and another of his works from the new collection will be installed in the upcoming city park near Lake Palaukinis. Other artists contributing to Ignalina’s artistic renewal include Kęstutis Musteikis, Liutauras Griežė, Arvydas Ališanka, and Ignalina-born sculptor Raimondas Žievys. It is hoped that these artistic surprises appearing in various parts of the town will bring new colors and make Ignalina even more attractive.
These artistic activities are part of the project “Catch the Arts: Development of a Network of Creative Residencies in the Land of Lakes Region.” The project is implemented under the “Culture” program, funded by Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Project partners include the public institution “Euroregion Lakes Region Directorate Office”, the Ignalina Regional Museum, the Visaginas Cultural Center, the Dusetos Art Gallery Cultural Center, the Utena Regional Museum, the public institution “Kuri veikia”, and Simbahollin (Iceland).
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