A WORLD WITHOUT ČIURLIONIS. Valkyrie/Vilks/Motulė – Exhibition Opening

The exhibition, titled "A WORLD WITHOUT ČIURLIONIS. Valkyrie/Vilks/Motulė," explores how Valerija Čiurlionytė-Karužienė, known by her family nicknames Valkyrie, Vilks, and Motulė, selflessly dedicated herself to saving M. K. Čiurlionis' works. Between 1914 and 1953, Čiurlionis' paintings were at risk of being lost on at least four occasions due to historical turbulences like wars, occupations, and political dramas, and Valerija played a vital role in their preservation.

The exhibition was created by film director and poet Romas Lileikis, with Giedrius Laurušas as the designer. It features historical documents from Valerija Čiurlionytė’s grandson, Kąstis Zakis, which have never before been publicly exhibited. Attendees at the opening will have the chance to meet the creators, learn about the exhibition's concept, and hear about the historical context that nearly led to the loss of Čiurlionis' work.

A special highlight of the opening event is a new adaptation of M. K. Čiurlionis’ symphonic poem “In the Forest” for violin and piano. This performance will be presented by violinist and composer Mihkel Kerem from the United Kingdom/Estonia, who prepared the adaptation, and pianist Rokas Zubovas. Admission to the exhibition opening is free.