The number of works is increasing
The Association of Folk Artists of Vilnius Region – Art Creators, the Vilnius Association of the Union of Lithuanian Folk Artists and the Museum of Rokiškis Region are organizing the sixth republican competition exhibition of primitive painting dedicated to the memory of Monika Bičiūnienė, the most famous author of Lithuanian primitive painting. 57 authors have been selected for the exhibition, and 203 works will be exhibited. In comparison, 58 authors and 128 paintings were selected for the fifth exhibition. The tradition began in 2010, when the Vilnius Community of the Union of Lithuanian Folk Artists and the Vilnius Region Folk Artists Art Creators Association organized the first exhibition of primitive painting, with the aim of giving meaning to the memory of the famous Lithuanian primitivist, protecting the traditions of primitive painting, introducing new and honoring the best painters representing this art direction.
And this year, Rokiškis will be represented by folk artist Marytė Mieliauskienė, emeritus of the Rokiškis Region Museum, who is participating for the fourth time, Aleksandras Spundzevičius, who is presenting her work for the sixth time in this competition, and eighty-nine-year-old Aldona Giedra is participating for the first time. You can view the exhibition at the Rokiškis manor in the office and the central building from December 6 to January 31.
Honoring the laureates and awarding prizes is scheduled for January 31 next year.
Beginner
Monika Bičiūnienė (1910–2009) is considered the pioneer of primitive art in Lithuania and is often called the Lithuanian Pirosman. Her award was established in 2010 and is awarded every two years.
M. Bičiūnienė became famous all over the world as a representative of naive primitive art, although she started painting when she was approaching sixty, encouraged by her son Rimos Zigmas Bičiūnas.
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Article We have not only Šepkas, but also Bičiūnienė’s native Rokiškis.
What factors are contributing to the rising interest in primitive painting in Lithuania?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Art Expert on the Increasing Popularity of Primitive Painting in Lithuania
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good day, and thank you for joining us today. We’re excited to discuss the recent developments in the field of primitive painting in Lithuania. With the upcoming sixth republican competition exhibition dedicated to Monika Bičiūnienė, what are your thoughts on the increase in both the number of participants and artworks displayed?
Art Expert (AE): Thank you for having me! It’s quite exhilarating to see the growth in the number of participants and works. This year’s exhibition features 57 artists and 203 works, which is a significant increase from the previous event. It suggests a flourishing interest in primitive painting and a community that values this art form.
TNE: Absolutely! The exhibition seems to honor not just tradition but also encourages new artists. What do you think has contributed to this uptick in both participation and artwork submitted?
AE: There are a couple of factors at play here. Firstly, the efforts of organizations like the Association of Folk Artists and the Museum of Rokiškis Region offer artists a platform to showcase their work. The competitions not only promote established artists like Marytė Mieliauskienė and Aleksandras Spundzevičius but also encourage newcomers like the 89-year-old Aldona Giedra. This blend of seasoned and fresh talent is crucial for keeping the tradition alive.
TNE: It’s fascinating to see how mentorship and community support can inspire new artists. What do you think about the significance of dedicating this exhibition to Monika Bičiūnienė, one of the most renowned figures in Lithuanian primitive painting?
AE: Monika Bičiūnienė’s legacy is vital to the Lithuanian art scene. Dedicating the competition to her memory serves as a reminder of the country’s artistic heritage. It not only celebrates her contributions but also inspires artists to engage with the rich traditions of primitive painting. Remembering such figures helps contextualize the work of contemporary artists within the broader narrative of Lithuania’s artistic evolution.
TNE: That’s a great insight! As the exhibition opens, how do you see the future of primitive painting evolving in Lithuania? Will we continue to see an increase in interest and participation?
AE: I believe so. The current trajectory indicates that more artists are embracing this style, possibly owing to its accessibility and the cultural pride associated with traditional methods. As more exhibitions occur and initiatives are promoted, I expect to see a vibrant community emerge, sustaining interest in primitive painting and drawing younger generations into this artistic realm.
TNE: Exciting times lie ahead for the art scene in Lithuania! what would you recommend to someone new to primitive painting who wishes to learn more about it?
AE: I would encourage them to visit exhibitions like this one to experience the artwork firsthand. Engaging with artists, attending workshops, and studying the history of primitive painting can deepen their appreciation. There’s something truly special about understanding the simplicity and raw emotion behind these works.
TNE: Thank you so much for your insights and enthusiasm! It’s been a pleasure discussing the future of primitive painting and the dynamic talent within Lithuania’s art community.
AE: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how this beautiful art form continues to develop in the years to come.