Latvian Art Scene: Laima Eglīte Retrospective and More – A March 2026 Guide

March 2026 offers a vibrant array of cultural experiences in Latvia, from a retrospective exhibition of painter Laima Eglīte’s function to explorations of Art Deco design and musical celebrations. This guide provides an overview of key events happening throughout the month.

Laima Eglīte: Retrospectives Exhibition

From March 11th to April 11th, the Daugava Gallery will host “Retrospectives,” an exhibition showcasing the work of Latvian artist Laima Eglīte. The exhibition features pieces from each decade of her painting career, spanning from the 1970s to the present day. Galerija Daugava notes that Eglīte’s subjects often include friends, children, and mimes, reflecting her interest in pantomime and body language. Her work is deeply personal, portraying her life, observations, feelings, and experiences.

Eglīte, born in Riga in 1945, trained at the Janis Rozentāls Riga Secondary Art School and the Latvian Academy of Art’s Painting Department. Dhaudrecy Art Gallery highlights her versatility, noting her work extends to book graphic art and animation. She has been a member of the Latvian Artists Society since 1976.

A book featuring Laima Eglīte’s work will be available for purchase with an autographed copy on March 17th at 4:00 PM.

Art Deco: From Past to Present

The Museum of Decorative Arts and Design in Riga (Skārņu iela 10) will present “Art Deco – until today” from March 12th to May 17th. The exhibition explores design and craftsmanship from France, showcasing the bold, symmetrical patterns, clean lines, and aerodynamic designs characteristic of the Art Deco style. The exhibition will include tapestries and furniture from France’s National Furniture Fund, alongside a selection of glass vases from the Esterkin family’s private collection.

Musical Events

Raimonds Paul’s 90th Anniversary Concert Story: On March 14th, a concert story dedicated to the 90th anniversary of Latvian composer Raimonds Pauls will be held in Cēsis Concert Hall. The performance will feature melodies that have become foundational to Latvian culture, performed by Artūrs Skrastiņš and Daumants Kalniņš, accompanied by Matīss Žilinskis and Rihards Plešanovs, the Latvian Radio Big Band, the State Chamber Orchestra Sinfonietta Riga, and Latvian Radio Choir, among others.

Franz Lehar’s Operetta Judith: From March 14th to April 14th, the Operetta Theater will stage Franz Lehar’s operetta Judith in several Latvian cities, including Alūksne, Liepāja, and Cēsis. Directed by Austrian director Gernot Kranner, the production features Anta Jankovska and Dainis Skutelis, or Anastasija Dolgonenko and Juris Jope, in the leading roles.

Pet Exhibition

PetExpo 2026, an international pet and zoo industry exhibition, will grab place on March 14th and 15th at the Ķipsala Hall. The event will feature over 3,000 dogs representing 237 breeds, including rare and exotic varieties, competing for championship titles. Cat beauty contests, demonstrations, and shows will also be held, alongside displays of exotic birds and farm animals.