Contemporary Embroidery Artist Elīza Māra to Open Her First Solo Exhibition “Stitched Microrayon Realities”
Contemporary embroidery artist Elīza Māra will open her first solo exhibition “Stitched Microrayon Realities” on May 13 at 5:30 PM at the Pļavnieki branch of the Riga Central Library (Salnas Street 8, Riga).
From May 13 to June 30, the exhibition will showcase works that interpret the architectural and everyday details of Soviet-era microdistricts, focusing on destigmatization and questions of identity.
In the exhibition “Stitched Microrayon Realities”, the artist uses traditional embroidery techniques and unusual material combinations to interpret Soviet-era apartment block architecture. Although Soviet microdistricts are often seen as an uncomfortable cultural heritage, through her artistic expression Elīza emphasizes their emotional value - Soviet microdistricts are home to a significant part of Riga’s population. Thus, it is important to foster an understanding of these places not only in terms of local identity but also in the sense of belonging. The venue of the exhibition - a library housed in a Soviet-era apartment building -adds an extra dimension to the works, creating an authentic resonance between the environment and the artwork.
“It is a privilege to hold my first solo exhibition in Riga in the heart of the Pļavnieki microdistrict—in a library uniquely located between two apartment blocks. This is the perfect place where the environment and my embroidery works are in complete harmony and complement each other,” emphasizes Elīza Māra.
Elīza Māra is a contemporary embroidery artist and designer who combines visual arts and cultural heritage interpretations in her work. She is the first artist from Latvia to graduate from the prestigious Royal School of Needlework in London with a bachelor’s degree in hand embroidery. Since completing her studies, Elīza has developed her creative practice in Latvia, founding the brand “studio Elīza Māra” and actively working as both an artist and educator.
Her most notable projects to date include the creation of a replica of the “Līgo” flag for the 150th anniversary of the Latvian Song Festival and an upcoming artist residency in Tokyo as part of “Expo 2025.” Elīza is also featured in the Michelangelo Foundation’s Homo Faber Guide, which highlights outstanding artisans and designers worldwide.
The library is open to visitors on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Fridays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The library is closed on Sundays. Entrance to the exhibition is free of charge.
More information:
Riga Central Library Pļavnieki Branch
rcb.plavnieki@riga.lv
67037339
