Art Academy of Latvia

The Art Academy of Latvia was founded in 1919 by one of the first Latvian professional painters and the first rector of the Academy Vilhelms Purvītis (1872-1945). He favoured the development of Latvian art. A modernized tradition of academic education, openness to topical art processes and activities, contribution of the pedagogues in preparing young artists and a high-level performance of the students have ensured and preserved the Academy’s authority till nowadays. Political awakening and the restoration of Latvia’s independence in 1990 originated the need to search for a dynamic balance between the academic tradition of art pedagogy and the modern cultural paradigm. All the students of the Academy study traditional art techniques of the respective art area, specialize in the application of traditional and untraditional materials, as well as develop creative skills related to the use of modern media. They pile up experience in the implementation of art projects. Basic academic knowledge in art disciplines is acquired in the first four academic years. At the end of the studies students have to develop and present their diploma work.