The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on their own identities, engage with the multifaceted nature of belonging, and journey through the works of ten artists.
Each piece delves into the essence of migration—unveiling the invisible forces of displacement, the tension between past and present, and the constant question of what makes a place truly home.
A Platform for Reflection and Dialogue
“The exhibition offers an opportunity to see the world through the eyes of artists with refugee experiences. Artists possess a unique gift for questioning, exploring complex topics, and revealing perspectives that might otherwise remain unseen. The showcased works challenge us to rethink the meaning of the word refugee. A refugee is not just someone in search of aid or solidarity but a person who brings unique vision, creativity, experience, and potential that enriches the society they enter.
This exhibition not only introduces us to the works of artists who have experienced migration but also asks us as a society: Are we ready for open dialogue with those who arrive? Are we prepared to change and grow together?” says Aistė Ulubey, founder and head of the Artscape agency.
Collaborative Creativity
Curators Stefanija Paulauskaitė (Lithuania) and Valentyna Ryvlina (Ukraine) emphasize that the idea for the exhibition arose from a shared creative principle. The exhibition was developed through collaboration with over ten artists—some showcasing their works, others contributing music or other creative expressions. This is not only a space for art but also a platform for discussions on the meaning, challenges, and enriching possibilities of migration.
Visitors are invited to explore the works of emerging and professional artists who have found refuge in Lithuania. These works—created specifically for this exhibition—range from visual arts, music, and experimental cinema to painting, performance, and sculpture.
The pieces on display were created by artists participating in the Artscape Mentorship Program 2024, an initiative empowering refugee artists to strengthen their creative authenticity and fostering collaboration between Lithuanian cultural organizations and creators who have sought refuge in Lithuania.
“First, I want to thank all the Lithuanian and international artists and creators who participated in the mentorship program. To the people of Lithuania, I want to say this: those who lose their homes and countries but seek refuge elsewhere do not lose their talents, abilities, and qualifications. Are we ready to give them the opportunity to thrive here in Lithuania? That is our choice. This exhibition is a resounding ‘yes’—a choice for inclusion and integration for the benefit of all of us,” says Renata Kuleš, UNHCR representative in Lithuania. She highlights that over 50,000 refugees currently reside in Lithuania.
The ART AS REFUGE exhibition is free to visit and will run until December 8, 2024, at the Eight Eyes and Ears Gallery (Algirdo St. 38, Vilnius). Gallery hours:
- Thursdays: 6:30–9:00 PM
- Fridays to Sundays: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Visitors are also invited to register for free supplementary events, including guided tours with curators and artists.
Registration: https://forms.gle/BEFfNiqQdWVjUyus8
- December 6th (Friday): Guided tour with curators and artists.
- December 7th (Saturday): Guided tour with curators and artists.
- December 8th (Sunday): Guided tour with curators and artists.
The Artscape Mentorship Program, implemented in partnership with the UNHCR, is Lithuania’s first cultural educational initiative aimed at fostering creative activity among refugee artists and creators. This year’s goal is to create a space for participants to strengthen their creative voices and foster collaboration between Lithuania’s cultural sector and creators from refugee backgrounds.
Program Partners: Vilnius City Municipality, Kazickas Family Foundation, Lithuanian Culture Council, and Goethe-Institut Vilnius