Kamanė's texts

* * * 2008-11-02

The destruction of valuable buildings of architecture of Soviet times continues in Kaunas – their authors have already been evaluated by the title of Knight of Architecture in the years of Lithuania‘s independence already. Merkurijus shopping centre of Algimantas Sprindys has already been doomed. Now the time has come for the funeral home "Sorrow" designed by the Knight of Architecture Alfredas Paulauskas located at Jonavos Str. 220. Kaunas Branch of the Lithuanian Architects‘ Union sent letters to state culture heritage institutions asking to stop the unmotivated intention to pull down the complex “Sorrow“.

ALMANACS OF THE POETRY SPRING: DIVERSITY OR ILLUSION? 2008-10-28

The simplest way is to cover any mix by the name of postmodernism. As if unifying perspective or dialogue among different speakers were impossible in the chaos of postmodernism. No, it is not the postmodernism with endless eclecticism to blame. It is the lack of a critical look, which would establish relations among eclectic parts. Poetry is very diverse. The “Poetry Spring” almanac should vividly represent this variety. Meanwhile, it is meant only for the blind and colour-blind.

RESPONSIBLE AND WITH HOPE 2008-10-27

M.Kosinskaitė’s works and the community of her characters are unique, highly individual and very much interested in our life. While the case of creation of the artist is not closed yet, the author reads the verdict to the artist - she should promise not to turn out from the chosen road and to avoid any kind of influences. It is the road which may be found among thousands of other paths without advertisements or expensive navigation systems. This road may be recognised while listening to the acoustic voice of one’s heart.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. SALLIES OF YEAR 1990 - 1992 2008-10-19

When J.Gasiūnas offered to Arūnas to become a member of Angis, he doubted because he evaluated gatherings of artists and art groups sceptically. Later he decided and agreed saying that it would be a test for him.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. FROM LIFE OF ANGIS MEMBERS 2008-10-19

Arūnas was interested in Kampas’ paintings. He enjoyed the big formats of Rimvydas, the freedom. Sometimes it seemed to Arūnas that Kampas’ works were slightly shallow, he compared them with loud music, trumpets. He searched for multiple layers and depth in his creation. Still, a kind of competition with Kampas could be sensed in Arūnas’ intonations sometimes.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. JIESTRAKIS 2008-10-19

The mother of G.Dabrišius used to wonder: “What does this artist see in the dark there?” Arūnas admired the twilight and structures of the stable, hen-coop. He also painted ornamented windows of the kitchenette in daylight when it did not rain.

OLD TOWN AND ĄŽUOLYNAS – ZONE OF HIGHER SENSIBILITY 2008-10-11

The eyes of members of Kaunas Architecture and Urbanism Experts’ Council (KAUET) turned to new projects in the old town of Kaunas and in Ąžuolynas: the detailed plan of the quarter “Iki-Lituanika” in the old town and the offers for the detailed plan of the land plot located near Ąžuolynas (Oak Forest) at Vydūno Al. 2A did not receive experts’ approval and were sent back for improvement.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.MARTINAITIS. OUR UNTĖ 2008-10-10

The multi-layered paintings of A. Martinaitis reminded of work of a villager – ploughman in a way. Like Saint Isidore he ploughed the soil of his paintings and raised them to the heights of the spirit. He worked zestfully proving once again in the way known to him only that art was a miracle and not a toy for a snot.

HIGH-SOUNDING BEGINNING IS OUTSET FOR GREAT WORK 2008-10-09

The renovated Kaunas Philharmonic, the bigger number of seats, improved acoustics, new chamber hall may attract even more listeners of classical music now. It means that the organisers of concerts will have to work harder while choosing concert programmes and performers from now on. No one will disagree: music of quality is eternity. Isn’t it?

ART OF LETTER: AMID EXTINCTION, INTERPRETATIONS AND ILLITERACY 2008-10-05

In brief: When did you receive a letter with a carefully inscribed address on the envelope the last time? Calligraphic greetings, compositions of scripts on book covers, in posters and postcards have become rarities. Electronic space seems to have pushed away this phenomenon – manuscript and calligraphy art – for good.

ALFREDAS ŠATAS: ICONOCLAST OF PAIN 2008-10-02

The retrospective exhibition of paintings of Alfredas Šatas “Creation is My Life” at Kaunas Picture Gallery should have become one of the most interesting exhibitions in the panorama of all art exhibitions. It is an exhibition of an artist who attentively observes the black-and-white chess board of life, in which he is both the king and the pawn.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. ON THRESHOLD OF CHANGE. 1990-1993 2008-09-22

When discussions about art and Lithuania started, K.Zapkus stated that one should cross out everything in Lithuania, all traditions and villages with wooden churches, that new art had to be created. Arūnas who cherished traditions was shocked. He turned white and it was only a lucky accident that he did not start a fight with K.Zapkus.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. LECTURER’S PRINCIPLES 2008-09-22

“A lecturer should obtain trust of students. They should be sure that he will not say anything that he will not be able to ground on the basis of his professional experience and that he will say everything he should say. A lecturer, who was silent when his duty was to express an opinion, knows deep in the heart that he has lost the right to such trust. He looks at his students with unclean conscience, and a human being with unclean conscience is similar to a patient.”

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. “VATKINSAS” AT INSTITUTE 2008-09-22

Darius Rakauskas: “I stopped fearing to exhibit works since then. The fact that the respected professor searched for the best variant of the exposition without emphasising his personality remained deep in my heart.”

BORNHOLM – KINGDOM OF GLASS AND CERAMICS ART 2008-09-21

The organisers of the project of glass art European Glass Context 2008 wanted to give prominence to the national identity and school in the project. Speaking about this point, the expositions remained rather silent about this topic. It seems that few countries maintain own traditions.

THE REBORN CHECHNYA SQUARE MIGHT CHANGE ITS NAME 2008-09-17

The main task of the reconstruction is to create an architecturally memorable modern public space, which would become the object of attraction in Kalniečiai district. It should be a democratic place for being, resting and entertaining oneself. The architects offer to change the name of the square. They plan to divide the territory of the square into three zones of intensiveness: passive rest, active rest and amphitheatre space for events.

RESISTED THE “GREAT DOZEN” 2008-09-08

After the last sounds of the thirteenth Pažaislis Music Festival died away, the superstitious people could feel frustrated – “the great dozen” appeared to be not so terrible. The number did not spoil the final concert or other events of the festival this year. The concert performance of the opera "Village Pride" by P.Mascagni, the accent of the final concert, was not spoiled even by the rain that started in the middle of the programme.

HARD WEEKEND FOR PIANISTS 2008-08-26

The cognitive concert took place, the audience heard the sound of rare instruments, people even applauded after every part of the music piece. However, if not for the beautiful playing in ensemble, warm communication of M.Bačkus with listeners, the concert would be similar to a good music lesson at school.

RAIN OF FRENCH MUSIC 2008-08-25

Unexpected interpretational solutions and imprecision, which made the soloist feel uncannily, could be noticed in accompaniment to opera arias too. It is rather strange as the role of a pianist-accompanist is the visit card of L.Dorfmanas.

MASTERY COURSES FOR MUSICIANS, LISTENERS AND SUPPORTERS 2008-08-22

Mastery courses, during which the young musicians learn secrets of playing an instrument from real professionals, give concerts, share impressions and experience, are becoming more and more popular every year. Still, one should regret that these events attract fewer and fewer listeners and constantly lack funds. The majority of teachers and organisers work only for the sake of idea. However, why should representatives of another country be concerned what is happening in Lithuania? Let us hope that at least somebody is concerned about the future of culture of the entire world or Europe.

IT’S (NOT) THE SAME FOR ME – JARAS’ DZEN! 2008-08-19

There is much of everything at the end of the summer. “It’s (Not) the Same for Me – Jaras’ Dzen!” by Skaidrius Kandratavičius sent to Kamanė (not the first work already) has not been edited as regards the style and writing/spelling manner so that it would not lose its original “uniqueness”.

DUET OF VIRTUOSOS IN BIRŠTONAS: G.GEDVILAITĖ AND V.ČEPINSKIS 2008-08-09

Guoda Gedvilaitė: “It was a really serious show, not some play. I adore chamber music, I play in a trio or quartet in Germany sometimes. I give concerts with soloists rarer. Vilhelmas is an exception. We have promised to each other to be faithful”.

READER ENDEAVOURED BUT DIALOGUE DID NOT START 2008-07-31

Perhaps the writer believes that the raising of philosophical problems approximates the novel to questions of existence interesting to everybody. However, the mannered gusts of sentiments and avalanches of bookish phrases suppress the pleasure of reading in general instead of encouraging authentic reflection in the book “Madmen and Saints”.

BLAZE OF PROGRAMME AND MISERIES WITH LEAFLETS 2008-07-20

The music weekend was really of high quality, it enriched listeners with new information and good mood that was not spoiled by the weather. While praising the organisers for the good concert programme, one may not leave it unmentioned that mistakes in leaflets of the festival may constantly be noticed. Proof-reading mistakes are usual already; still, one should notice that the content of the concert had been mixed.

SILHOUETTE OF MERKURIJUS OFFSPRING DEVELOPING 2008-07-15

In brief: Kaunas Architecture and Urbanism Experts’ Council approved of the project of the multi-functional complex Merkurijus created by A.Kančas’ Studio with some notices regarding its further development. The approval of the future building was given after the meeting of KAUET on July 9. The meeting was headed by the architect Evaldas Barzdžiukas.

TALENTS AMONG ADVERTISED STARS OF OPERETTA FESTIVAL 2008-07-08

The old truth was remembered during the operetta festival: the real star is not the one that is advertised loudly and that advertises himself/herself. The real stars shine from inside of personality. No matter how much attempts are made to persuade people by advertisements that the presented is good, the simple truth becomes clear later – acid offered even for free may not turn into sugar.

A TALENTED PERSON MAY FIGHT ON HIS OWN 2008-07-03

The 31-year-old Lithuanian pianist residing in the USA performed the programme which encompasses all main music styles – from the Baroque to the 20th century music. Of course, it is a complicated programme that requires complete mastery: knowledge of music styles, specifics of the instrument and very good technical preparation. After accepting such a bold and risky decision, the pianist remains “naked” in front of the audience with all his advantages and drawbacks.

CASTLE OF BULLY-BOYS IN LANDS OF MIGRATING FESTIVAL 2008-07-02

It is evident that Pažaislis Music Festival is experimenting successfully by expanding its existential spaces and searching for new methods to attract and interest the audience. The show of the quartet Terem was really intriguing and encouraging to take a deeper interest where the musical and geographical landmarks of the festival will turn in future.

KAUNAS ARCHITECTS – FOR EMIGRATION INTO WATER 2008-07-01

"That arena consumed much of his health", spoke the participants of the festival wishing that E.Miliūnas, who is called simply Simas, would recover from his illness as soon as possible. "Architect of the Year" communicated the following wish to his colleagues from hospital: "When starting to run in the arena of architecture, everybody should first of all choose the suitable height of the crossbar which one is going to overcome".

ART NOUVEAU AND ART DECO IN THE NETHERLANDS: THROUGH THE COLLECTOR’S EYES 2008-06-30

In brief: The exhibition “Art Nouveau and Art Deco in the Netherlands: 50 Design Years” will be open at M. Žilinskas Art Gallery for the entire summer. According to the Director of the National M.K.Čiurlionis Art Museum Osvaldas Daugelis, it is one of the most valuable foreign exhibitions ever presented at M. Žilinskas Gallery. The trend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco that emerged from it emphasises the importance of fine crafts, propagated aestheticism and stylistically united residential environment; refined forms, decorative expression, view stylisation is typical of works of these art trends.

“POETRY SPRING”: HAS SOMETHING HAPPENED? PERHAPS FINALLY! 2008-06-28

In brief: Almanacs of the Poetry Spring a criticised more and more severely: for low quality of works, for vague concept, low number of readers, protection of friends. Up till now the compilers and publishers swallowed bitter critique silently. However, something happened this year – Kaunas Branch of the Lithuanian Writers’ Union and the compilers of the almanac Violeta Šoblinskaitė and Gasparas Aleksa admitted frankly that they were not satisfied with the concept of the almanac. Something has happened!

FUTURE OF VILIJAMPOLĖ WATERSIDE ADJACENT TO THE OLD TOWN 2008-06-28

The task of this project is to grant tone to the vision of the waterside. The architectural composition is not contravened in general. The concept of buildings is possible. Buildings should be separated more so that spaces would become cosier. With such height, the buildings are too close to each other – it is necessary to check the insulation of flats. The quay line should be adapted to the public function.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. ACQUAINTANCE – MOTIFS OF PAINTING 2008-06-27

“I found a painting with a motif of a blooming chestnut tree. I dreamed of painting blooming chestnut trees for a long time. It was very hard to render it. There were also some paintings about Samogitia and one of them was called “A Trip to Samogitia”. I became curious who painted my motifs and traveled in Samogitia. Most importantly, the blooming chestnut trees were painted not so bad.”

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. ATTRACTION OF SAMOGITIA. YEARS 1984-1986 2008-06-27

He remembered in which church the confessional with interesting paintings or a painting of strange colours was. He filled notebooks with drawings of folk sculptures, sketches of met people while travelling. Sometimes he marked combinations of colours or put down what the colour of one or another object was. Samogitia was a kind of spiritual refreshment to Arūnas in search of authenticity.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. SAMOGITIA. YEAR 1984 OR 1985 2008-06-27

Such spiritual turning-points are familiar to every creative person. If one assumes responsibility to create, walk at the border and dip into existence, one also needs to accept pain, as only then creation is full-fledged. Such as works of Arūnas. He loved repeating the words of Justinas Mikutis said to artists: “Do you want to live conveniently and well and to paint at the same time? This will not happen, you have to choose!”

ROMANTIC “REQUIEM” FOR PEOPLE KILLED IN WARS 2008-06-25

True, the idea of the composer to honour victims of all wars by this monumental work was really noble. Even though not entirely original melodies sounded, they had an undisputable impact on hearts of people. The victims of wars were honoured, at least by the minute of silence when the conductor’s baton stopped in the air for a while.

FACE OF KAUNAS ARCHITECTURE – IN THE MIRROR OF NEW OFFICE BUILDINGS 2008-06-24

It is probable that more new office buildings of original architecture will arise in Kaunas in future. Therefore, it is important that architects and customers would avoid fast solutions and cheap materials, that they would strive for high-quality and original ideas, which would match the surroundings and comply to the needs of a human being. As a Swedish-British architect Ralph Erskine has put it, “The job of buildings is to improve human relations, and architecture must ease them, not make them worse.”

NEW NAMES IN PANORAMA OF TEXTILE ART 2008-06-15

The defence of Master works, which took place at Kaunas Art Faculty of Vilnius Academy of Arts, interested more people than only students and their relatives. Works of young textile creators proved once again that the Department of Textiles of Kaunas Art Faculty was famous for novelties and creativity. Four Master students of textile presented their works for public evaluation - the young artists should be memorised by exhibition visitors eager to see high-quality art works.

VALUES MORE PRECIOUS THAN MONEY 2008-06-10

The premiere of “Carmen Cubana” organised by Pažaislis Festival presented a chance to see the highest professionalism of performers in Lithuania as well as their personal qualities which every artist should have. Devotion, sincerity, joy and openness are the values which Lithuanian performers lack sometimes. These are values more precious than money on the stage.

OUTSET WITH OBSTACLES 2008-06-08

All performers needed much effort to play and sing with the sun shining into the eyes and with the wind blowing at the microphones. The organisers should take a good thought regarding other concerts in the yard of Pažaislis and not to spare money for the space which requires special sound equipment, as the success of the concert depends on sound quality in essence.

FIGHT OF PROFESSIONALS FOR HIGH-QUALITY FUTURE OF KAUNAS CENTRE 2008-06-04

Fight of professionals for quality – this is how meetings of Kaunas Architecture and Urbanism Experts’ Council (KAUET), in which “Merkurijus” reconstruction and other projects determining the future of Kaunas centre are considered, may be called.

ROCK IN CHURCH 2008-05-28

The implementation of the rock opera “Resurrected” is a bold step made by the organisers and the reserved Catholic church, which let in the untraditional genre into its space. It is probable that this step will inspire new unusual cultural events that will open doors of Lithuanian churches wider not only to sacral art but also to its new forms of expression attracting a number of people waiting for a live, interesting and attractive attitude towards eternal values of belief and existence.

DIALOGUES OF URBANISM, ARCHITECTURE AND RESURRECTION CHURCH 2008-05-20

 

Solid and expressive buildings should be constructed in Savanorių Avenue. A micro-ensemble has been created, and the material was presented perfectly. It is very good that finally this part of Savanorių Ave. is being designedas a complex, trying to join and combine urbanism and architecture into one unity.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. STAIRCASES. 1995 – 2001. 2008-05-16

Arūnas did not paint such staircases that were created at nights in forlorn houses any more. “It would not be difficult to repeat myself but why should I do it?“ he asked. Nonetheless, there are some paintings in which the motif of staircases is evident. Such canvases were painted in the workshop. Some of them are of large format.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. STAIRCASES. 2008-05-12

In brief: “I remember coming back to Kaunas and thinking – what should I do now that I graduated from the institute? I could not see the world. Everything was closed. It seemed there was nobody to speak to. Perhaps it was due to loneliness that I found some shabby staircase and felt that it was talking to me. It was interesting to hear what it told. One only had to put down this tale“, remembered Arūnas about his first years in Kaunas after the studies.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. STAIRCASES. 1998. 2008-05-12

“Everything that is old and full of smell of life is vanishing,” Arūnas used to say. “I am interested only in old real things, old houses, historical, sacral places. Events seemed to be printed on them. I am attracted to these imprints. Contemporary things do not have a story. Only the old ones help me regain the equilibrium.

NOVELTIES IN KARALIAUS MINDAUGO AVENUE AND AT RESURRECTION CHURCH 2008-04-30

Two projects change the face of Karaliaus Mindaugo Avenue radically. A new parish house is being designed in the land plot of the Resurrection Church. In both cases the exceptional location and its importance requires sensitivity and wisdom while accepting urbanistic and architectural decisions.

VICTIMS OF CONTEMPORARY ART 2008-04-24

In brief: The author concludes that a talented artist will always find methods how he/she may turn attention to the most urgent problems by avoiding destruction of animals in artworks. Art should not be censored but self-censorship is necessary for every artist – he/she should understand where freedom ends and destruction starts in creation. Otherwise, the next marginal step – unethical and forced abuse of a man (a child, asocial or psychically impaired person) in artworks may also become the question of time and agreement.

BETWEEN INTERESTS OF THE CITY AND OBJECT OWNERS 2008-04-19

In brief: On April 9 Kaunas Architecture and Urbanism Experts’ Council (KAUET) considered the possibilities of building a monument for the priest Antanas Mackevičius, the technical project of the multi-apartment house at Gedimino Str.10 and the pre-project offers of the building reconstruction at K.Donelaičio Str.33. The chairman was Gintaras Prikockis.

MINIMALISM, PSEUDO-MINIMALISM, HYPER-MINIMALISM IN ARCHITECTURE 2008-04-14

In brief: Minimalism in contemporary world and Lithuanian architecture is a wide-spread phenomenon. It derives from rationalism and functionalism of the beginning of the 20th century but, in general, the principles of minimalism exist from the ancient times and are related to various activities of people.

THE MERRY OR THE WIDOW? 2008-04-11

In brief: A festival is taking place at Kaunas State Musical Theatre again. The culprit of it is the premiere of the operetta of Franz Lehar “The Merry Widow” staged at the theatre for the sixth time already. The variant of the work directed by Valius Staknys in 1988 may be still remembered by people who have seen it. Therefore, a rather big number of the audience, which sat in the theatre hall on the first weekend of April, compared the new staging with impressions experienced two decades ago.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. FROM LIFE IN WORKSHOP 2008-04-02

After the death of A. Martinaitis in 1986, Arūnas inherited the workshop at the decision of the Artists’ Union. Arūnas had to repaint the wall which was turned into a telephone book by A. Martinaitis: “I could not work here otherwise. I felt like I was in a museum rather in a workshop. Still, I could not be in the empty workshop. White walls and nothing. A thing or an interior was necessary which would have some emotional information. Only later I felt that everything was rising from the inside.”

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. ONE-MAN EXHIBITION IN 1984 2008-04-02

Rumours were heard while studying at Vilnius Art Academy that there was one very gifted painter in Kaunas. Some Arūnas Vaitkūnas. We heard in 1984 that his one-man exhibition was opened in the premises of the Artists’ Union in K.Donelaičio Street.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. DOVAINONYS. 1985 2008-04-02

In brief: After the death of the painter Didžiokienė, the Artists’ Union took over the house of Didžiokai and the homestead in Dovainonys. Artists could live in that house, create there and look after the homestead.

PERSPECTIVES IN SAVANORIŲ AVENUE AND PARTIZANŲ STREET 2008-03-30

According to D.Šarakauskas, all land plots in this part of Savanorių Avenue, between Molėtų and Leliūnų Streets, are very small. Small pavilions and buildings are standing here. The biggest possible volume is being designed. It is a building from 3 to 5 floors of 18 m maximal height. It is allowed to construct a building of 20 meters in the land plot. The access would be from Savanorių Ave. Commercial premises are planned in the first 4 floors and rented offices on the top floor.

BETWEEN ORIGINAL VOICE AND DECORATED PARAPHRASES 2008-03-29

In brief: Most probably every critic is searching for the original voice standing out by individuality and authenticity. Reading the newest selection of poems of Algimantas Mikuta “Dance of a Ferret”, the author of the article searched for such a voice in particular, which would rise above language cliches and enable the reader to experience the world anew. Especially, having in mind that critics call the search for reality, authenticity and individuality the most prominent features of A. Mikuta poetry.

WOODEN KAUNAS: VALUE WITHOUT SURVIVAL GUARANTEES 2008-03-17

In brief: While new quarters of high-rise buildings emerge, glass, concrete, plastic and metal is replacing the most natural construction material wood, one may drop to wooden quarters built in Kaunas suburbs at the end of the 19th - first half of the 20th century. Not all of them have survived in the same way, their cultural and architectural value differs as well. Not all of them will be preserved due to the expanding city and new constructions.

ANOTHER TWO PROJECTS ON THE CROSSROAD OF KAUNAS HISTORY AND FUTURE 2008-03-10

In brief: Kaunas Architecture and Urbanism Experts’ Council (KAUET) considered the perspectives of renovating the low multi-apartment house at Šiaulių Str.18 (near the station market) and at Nepriklausomybės Sq. 3 on March 5. Both projects are closely related with the historical spirit of Kaunas; therefore, sensitive attention should be paid to them.

ABOUT DEFICIT OF CREATIVE SPACES IN KAUNAS 2008-03-03

In brief: Kaunas Branch of the Lithuanian Artists’ Union started a cycle of cultural discussions initiated by the chairman of the branch Eugenijus Nalevaika. As February was coming to an end, the first meeting at a round table took place during which the problem of Kaunas creative and exhibition spaces was analysed. Representatives of the Artists’ Union, Art Photographers’ Union, Folk Artists’ Union, National M.K. Čiurlionis Art Museum, Kaunas County Library, various art galleries and city authorities gathered for a discussion and shared their ideas ardently. The record of the discussion is presented in the article.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. PARIS. YEAR 1989 2008-02-28

Paris! Why is this city so magic for artists? Is this magic stronger for elder artists and artists of my generation? Closed by the walls of the Soviet period, we dreamed of wandering along streets of Montmartre, of sitting in outside cafes, looking through the glass of red wine to the play of lights and colours of Paris.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. PARIS. YEAR 1997 2008-02-28

In brief: In 1997, after almost ten years, Arūnas left for Paris again. This time he intended to paint, visit museums, walk along the banks of the Seine and register impressions in notebooks.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. PARIS. YEAR 2003 2008-02-28

In brief: The end of March 2003 was terribly cold. The three of us left for Paris from Kaunas bus station on a dark evening torn by icy wind. Tomas attended the first form then but we with Arūnas decided that a trip would also be a good school for him.

ABOUT BUREAUCRATIC VIOLENCE AGAINST LITERATURE (II) 2008-02-17

In brief: After unsuccessful attempts to find out about the principles of creative activity of the Lithuanian Writers’ Union (LWU), Kaunas Branch, the question arose: what right does this organization have to behave so arrogantly with the society which feeds it by its funds?

LEGENDARY VERSALIS IS TRYING TO REVIVE IN KAUNAS 2008-02-10

In brief: Kaunas Architects and Urbanism Experts’ Council (KAUET) considered offers of architects and investors how historical buildings and quarters of the city centre could be adapted to the needs of the 21st century without affecting the value of historicity. Revival of Versalis is among the considered projects.

IRON DRAWINGS 2008-02-09

In brief: The name of the sculptor Edmundas Frejus is closely related with iron – even the initials of the artist pressed in his works correspond to the sign fe in the Mendeleyev table and mean ferrum – iron. Iron is the main creative substance of E.Frejus and also the exact metaphor of the strong personality.

RADIANCE OF STARS: WHAT DIMS IT? 2008-02-06

In brief: The solo recital of a singer is a rare and almost vanishing phenomenon in the Lithuanian music life, not to speak about a concert of an opera soloist on a theatre stage. This is why the evening of opera stars duets, which took place at Kaunas Musical Theatre on January 29, should have become a beautiful gift for admirers of belcanto.

ABOUT NOVELTIES IN KAUNAS SAVANORIŲ AVENUE AND PARTIZANŲ STREET 2008-02-03

Kaunas Council of Architecture and Urbanism Experts (KAUET) analysed the new offers of architects and investors in Savanorių Avenue and Partizanų Street in Kaunas. The detailed plans of the high-rise building of offices with commercial premises and underground parking designed by A.Kančas and T.Petreikis at Savanorių Ave. 441 and the high-rise residential house at Partizanų Str. 192b (designed by Kaunas Design and Consulting Office, authors – D.Augustinaitė, A.Asauskas, customer – Kamintos Investicija UAB) were analysed.

BAROQUE PEARL IN KAUNAS SCRAPHEAP 2008-01-22

In brief: Kaunas and the entire Lithuania is proud of the unique pearl of late Baroque in North and Eastern Europe – Pažaislis monastery ensemble. It is one of the most beautiful and most visited cultural heritage objects in Kaunas district attracting the eye by its architecture and picturesque surroundings. Sadly, the pearl is presently shining in the heap of litter...

IN MEMORIAM OF ARŪNAS VAITKŪNAS. “BROOM” PAINTINGS 2008-01-15

In brief: “The brush should be managed by a disciplined mind” or “things disguised behind the brushstroke are more important than the brushstroke itself”. These two thoughts of eastern painters most probably suit while describing the “broom” works of Arūnas the best.

IN MEMORIAL OF ARŪNAS VAITKŪNAS. PORTRAITS 2008-01-15

In brief: In addition to author’s books, installations and objects, there is another field, which has not been analysed by critics and described, among Arūnas’ works – portraits. Some of them were ordered by institutions, others created at the order of life conditions.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. OBJECTS: INTRODUCTIONS AND CONCLUSIONS 2008-01-15

In brief: “... All arts are speaking about the same. Only the form of expression is different. One is going to the same centre from different points.” This was what Arūnas wrote on November 13, 1988 for the art critic Alfonsas Andriuškevičius who wrote a book “72 Lithuanian Artists about Art”, published in 1998 by Vilnius Art Academy Publishing House.

UPSETTING DEBUT 2008-01-14

In brief: Most probably, every young writer is dreaming of writing a work that would equal to works created by literature professionals. Young authors often want to revolt against recognised authorities of literature. No doubt, too big ambitions lead to loftiness and emptiness. On the other hand, the flight of creative outbreak grants original features to a young writer.

SWEETS FROM THE CAPITAL CITY 2008-01-03

In brief: It is already accepted that children receive many sweets packed in beautiful boxes for Christmas and the New Year. Music admirers visiting new years’ eve concerts are usually treated with music sweets – popular and merry programmes. One of such desserts packed in an attractive manner was offered to Kaunas residents on the 31st of December at Kaunas Cultural Centre hall.

FROM THE ARCHITECTURAL MATERNITY HOME OF KAUNAS CENTRE RENOVATION 2007-12-30


In brief: Technical projects of new objects located at Karaliaus Mindaugo Avenue, in the neighbourhood of Akropolis, strategically important to Kaunas were considered during the last meeting of Kaunas Architecture and Urbanism Experts’ Council (KAUET) of 2007: the reconstruction of Respublika hotel unfinished from the Soviet times (No. 38, designed by G.Natkevičius Office and Partners) and the multifunctional complex with a residential multi-apartment house in place of the forlorn territory (Nr. 35, 37, designed by A.Kančas Studio).

HIGH FREQUENCIES OF TEXTILE ART 2007-12-21

In brief: It has been a long time since Kaunas was so lively and running a fever of art, galleries were full of artworks and flooded by people, cafes and public spaces of the city were brought to life by intensive discussions, performances and actions. Process, dynamics and rhythmical pulse of art – Kaunas art biennial “Textile’07” vibrates with all of this today. The organisation of the biennial was irreproachable this year. The selection of works and curators’ system was extremely transparent and intellectual.

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TILE OF KAUNAS ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2007 WAITING FOR CANDIDATES 2007-12-13

The time has come to elect and honour the most memorable artist of Kaunas of the year 2007 who has charmed you not only because he/she is a good acquaintance, a friend or a member of the same union, an influential colleague or a simple relative, a leader of a closed circle of friends but because he/she was remarkable by works important to Kaunas and Lithuania this year.

 

 

MUSICAL MONO(DI)POLY 2007-12-13

The quartets and the harp player Joana Daunytė had to work hard analysing the complicated score. However, the biggest load was that of A.Krikščiūnaitė. Her soprano shined by lyrical and dramatic colours, the most complicated interval leaps were performed fluently, the singing sounded persuasive and emotional. The intonation of the singer was precise as a Swiss clock.

WHO IS DISTRESSED REGARDING INTERNATIONAL MODERN DANCE? 2007-12-06

In brief: Therefore, the author expresses his main wish further on: if one is not allowed to doubt the artistic level of foreign modern dance production and if every criticising and doubting person is called a gander in the field of modern dance, there is a way out of this situation – it should be written in posters that idiots are not allowed in this or that performance and that they may receive a free ticket if they are allowed there. It will be honest, like charity for tramps in a party of elite. However, the organisers want the money of those brainless tramps because of some reason.

LAIMA ORŽEKAUSKIENĖ: TEXTS OF TEXTILE AND CHURCH CONTEXTS 2007-12-05

In brief: Neither the twilight of December nor the painful dampness overran two important things: the exposition was unusual – works were presented even outside the church, and the combination of the old and the new surprised pleasantly. The works of L.Oržekauskienė hung on walls, placed in corners burrowed to walls counting hundreds of years. The works became part of the old wall painting and revealed additional meanings which were earlier deadened by sterile environment of exhibition halls.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. NEW YEAR 2007-12-03

It is his main attitude and value in life which he tried to follow even during the New Year’s festival. He strived to dip into the state of creation, to draw a painting – it was vitally important to him. Later – to find “means” in order to grant expression to new works.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. STORIES OF ALYTUS LUMBER-ROOM 2007-12-03

After the trip via snow-covered fields when only white colour and wide strokes of a brush – branches of black trees prevailed – Arūnas dipped into thought. He experimented something in silence by watercolours on sheets of paper during days and evenings. He did not hurry to share the ripening idea but he noted that he needed to change the method and tools of painting.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. FAMILY 2007-12-03

This was how the artist’s road began. Later he wrote in the margin of art history synopsis while studying at art institute: “I was asked at the age of seven whether I wanted to be a painter. I answered no. I was asked why? I explained that artists did not have holidays.”

ART IS ECOLOGY OF SPIRIT 2007-11-29

In brief: We live in a complicated period when art as expression and way of thinking is pushed out to the outskirts of life. The situation has been determined by economic factors, financial groups and their indifference towards art. Being a graphic, the author may not disassociate from public and political phenomena taking place in the society. The graphic is primarily interested in principles of visual arts modelling.

FIGARO - HERE, AMBROGIO - THERE 2007-11-29

In brief: Who is the main character of the opera “Barber of Seville” by Gioachino Rossini? Figaro, Rosina, or Count Almaviva perhaps? One may make a mistake here. The audience of the newest premiere of Kaunas Musical Theatre was almost sure that the silent servant of Doctor Bartolo Ambrogio attracted attention the most.

ON BUREAUCRATIC VIOLENCE AGAINST LITERATURE (I) 2007-11-27

In brief: If literature interesting only to few is funded and the LWU Kaunas Branch avoids answering “why”, it is possible to assert that literature has appeared in the clawsof bureaucrats’ lawlessness, as decisions are based not on the quality of works but on the ideology and interests of the people managing LWR branches. The author wonders whether the tradition of bureaucratic violence against literature is alive in the entire Lithuanian Writers’ Union. Thus, the author of Kamanė is going to continue the research, as it seems meanwhile that one branch of the LWU really reminds of a structure reproducing budget money into waste-paper.

FIRST EVENINGS “AT CLOSE RANGE” (II) 2007-11-15

In brief: The composition of the duet seems intriguing: singer and clarinet player. The programme is eye-catching as well: only a few known surnames and much unheard contemporary vocal music. A real Klondike for artists searching for new experiences. The soprano Françoise Vanhecke and clarinet player Stephan Vermeersch presented a varied programme in the first part of the concert showing the most diverse possibilities of voice and clarinet timbers combinations. The performers played together and separately using their voices, bas and simple clarinets, drums, and even air balloons for expression.

FIRST EVENINGS “AT CLOSE RANGE” (I) 2007-11-15

In brief: The symphony of Daiva Rokaitė-Dženkaitienė “Stone of Heaven” demanded the greatest concentration of the audience. The author found interesting colours of the orchestra. The symphony itself is like two large dynamic waves with coda returning the listener to the peaceful sound environment suitable for thoughts. Every listener could interpret the philosophical ideas, which have inspired the work, in his/her own manner without relating them with particular objects.

OPEN LETTER 2007-11-05

In brief: The architect R. Palys expresses his concern about processes taking in Kaunas during the latter years – public spaces are thoughtlessly destroyed and used for construction for pragmatic purposes. They are taken away from the society, and the image of Kaunas as an attractive city is being degraded.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. THREE PAINTINGS 2007-11-03

“Interior in a Forlorn Garden” was created in Margionys. It is interesting and new that Arūnas painted such a large format in nature. The measurements of the painting are 195x135 cm. Arūnas was always concerned that the colour would not be formal or decorative in painting. He stressed that there exists a number of strange combinations of colours which you may not create while working in a studio. The painted motif may be found in the garden of our village.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. GREY CARDINAL 2007-11-03

A painter’s life may seem rather dull from the outside, reminding the existence of a loner. I am speaking not about artists who love Bohemian life who attract attention by refined speeches during evenings or who interest the audience by piquant episodes from their lives. Perhaps this is the moment artistic effect created by them.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. INHABITANTS OF FORT AND FOREST 2007-11-03

I call the works painted by Arūnas in 2000-2003 existential – psychological works. He created some canvases intensively in Margionys during the summer and others – in winter at his workshop in Kaunas. He painted interiors with alters at St. George Church in Kaunas. Sacral interiors of the forlorn church are without a human-being. The being of him is only implicit. Another force reigns in majestic interiors – it leaves a trace through the intensity of a stroke or a stern selection of colours.

KAUNAS PHOTO PUZZLES AND ILLUSIONS 2007-10-31

In brief: The extremely intensive fourth international festival of photography Kaunas Photo’07 has finished already. The event which offered spring and autumn sessions attracted by one-man, group exhibitions and nights of photography. The final chord was played in the large generalising exhibition “Mysteries, Secrets and Illusions”.

WATERCOLOURS FROM SAND AND FOG 2007-10-19

Woman in the dunes – such an image appears in mind while looking at the watercolours of Laima Drazdauskaitė. A woman who is trying to tame and curb sand, to know its real nature. Her watercolours grant structure to sand, and the damp paper captures sand trying to escape. The intangible elements – sand, mist, water obtain a weightless but clear and even strict form here.

LIONGINAS ŠEPKA: PHENOMENON OF GOD CARVER 2007-10-09

In brief: He was called by various names: Pandėlis “silly man”, strange god carver, genius, real artist. He signed proudly: “architect Lionginas Šepka”. One may shrug shoulders but it becomes understandable later – the artist tried to describe his attitude towards sculpture in this way.

WHY BE BITTER ABOUT “RAVEN” OF J.VAITKUS? 2007-10-02

In brief: Others are angry but bitterness is really not necessary here. A.Liuga Production and Kaunas Drama Theatre have invited people, asked them to sit down politely and to turn off the mobile phones. People turned them off, concentrated and started to wait.

IN MEMORIAL OF A.VAITKŪNAS. NESTS 2007-10-01

Arūnas was not interested in things without tradition. Neither things nor places. Still, he followed all novelties. Travelling round Lithuania, its sacral places, he constantly drew more interesting objects, took notes of insights or wrote down old epitaphs of tombstones. The accumulated material, his interest in history and traditions has formed his intellectuality of his paintings.

IN MEMORIAM OF A.VAITKŪNAS. SIGNS. 2007-10-01

“It is most probably a sign”, Arūnas loved repeating. Once when we were driving from our homestead to Kaunas, a black cat ran over a village road. Arūnas turned the car round and we drove along another road. It is a funny episode but it was significant for him.

IN MEMORIAL OF A.VAITKŪNAS: METAPHORS OF CHANGE AND PERSISTENT SIGNS 2007-10-01

“Metaphors of change and persistent signs,” Arūnas has chosen such a name for his future jubilee exhibition on the occasion of 50 years. Unfortunately, he did not have enough time for organising it. The entire period of painting, change and processes started in 1998 when we bought a homestead in Dzūkija (Southern Lithuania).

AFRICAN PRAYER OF THINGS 2007-09-27

In brief: Useless things in the exhibition “Talking of Useless Things” are objects of waste art created by fourteen artists from the Republic of South Africa. At the same time these objects represent the details of daily life from the distant land, signs of culture which causes curiosity. The content of the exposition reflects the situation of African art well. The traditions of local crafts are alive in the African continent, and professional art is poorly developed.

KAUNAS SKYSCRAPERS: HARD DELIVERY 2007-09-23

In brief: We have one bright dominant in Kaunas in regard to the height at the moment – the monumental Christ Resurrection Church (the height of the main tower reaches ~ 63 m). However, there are several signs that the situation may change in a short while. The special plan of locating high-rise buildings in Kaunas was approved of in spring of 2007 after long considerations which lasted almost a dozen of years. The plan grants the possibility to Kaunas to carry out the construction of untypical high-rise buildings in various places of the city.

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