Solo exhibition ‘Kodols’ at LOOK contemporary art gallery in Riga, Latvia. 2025.

Selected photos.

Exhibition dates: January 9 – February 1

 Kodols (Core) presents a poetic narrative, exploring both collective and individual memories, or ‘core memories,’ through the lens of nature’s experiences, processes and cycles.

In creating this series, the artist has continued her research of the concept of new materiality and the aesthetics of the sublime. These works act as reflections on Latvian identity, observed from a distance during her time spent abroad, while simultaneously drawing closer to its essence through the primary elements of nature.

‘The silky, warm surface of birchwood cradles memories of the sun’s touch, of faraway fields. Each fiber line and branch scar breathes calmly until the flame appears, altering the rhythm and the matter itself. Fire becomes a co-creator, leaving its sfumato traces where it prefers, just sometimes yielding to the wood and the artist’s intent. It’s paradoxical, as one might think that these inner landscapes, shaped by burning, would become more fragile. Yet, the charred surface gains resilience, resisting the impact of the surrounding environment. This is an alchemical path to the core, where the flame acts as both detonator and the mean of motion.’

The artworks are created using techniques developed experimentally over the past four years. This method allows for a partial control of the visual outcome, creating textures in varying shades or intricate, sometimes relief-like details. It is a layered process—akin to glazing with fire—paying homage to the core principles of painting while celebrating its transformative power.