On 1 October, an exhibition and discussion on “Europe Then and Now: the visionary work of M.K. Čiurlionis in the era of artificial intelligence” was organised at the EP in Brussels. Dedicated to the 150th anniversary of M.K. Čiurlionis, the greatest Lithuanian artist of all time, the exhibition aims to draw the attention of the international community to our exceptional artist. The exhibition features unique 3D replicas and a virtual reality experience “Trail of Angels”. This initiative, implemented by MEPs Petras Auštrevičius and Dainius Žalimas in cooperation with the National M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art, has become an exceptional opportunity to showcase Lithuanian culture and modern technologies in the international arena.
Among the participants of the event was Agnė Bielinytė Bieliakaitė, a representative of the Trail of Angels project team , the leader of Kaunas Pojūčių Art Centre, who presented the creative vision of the project in Brussels and shared her experience in the interpretation of Čiurlionis’ work through the prism of contemporary art and technology. For three days, MEPs had the opportunity to see the virtual experience “Trail of Angels” and to get closer to the works of the most famous Lithuanian artist.
“Trail of Angels” is an example of what Lithuanian culture can show the world today. We are creative and innovative in presenting the visionary works of M. K. Čiurlionis to Europe. I am delighted that they have also been seen by a large number of interested people in the European Parliament.” – said MEP Petras Auštrevičius.
Agnė says that being in Brussels was an inspiring experience and an opportunity to see how Lithuanian art and culture resonates in an international context:
“It was extremely interesting to see how foreign guests react to the world of Čiurlionis and our virtual journey through his work. It is not only a form of art, but also a form of dialogue between countries and cultures. I return to Lithuania with an even stronger belief in the potential of our artist and the power of communion,” – shared Agnė.
The exhibition was also attended by Virginija Vitkienė, Director of the National M. K. Čiurlionis Art Museum, who presented a report on Čiurlionis’ work and expressed her support for the Lithuanian cultural community, which is currently responding to political challenges in a united way. Belgian writer and broadcaster Kurt Van Eeghem, author of the book “Čiurlionis” and a long-time supporter of Lithuanian culture, also shared his insights into the artist’s legacy.
This exhibition and the presentation of the Trail of Angels project in Brussels symbolise the vitality and creativity of Lithuanian culture and its place on the European cultural map.
