OCTOPUS / contemporary art project

mīte Caune, Vitaly Stanislavsky, Aigars Zariņš, Helvijs Savickis, Liena Muceniece, I.Skr., Samdi, Jurgen Schubbe. They were brought together by mutual views and contemporary thinking. The aim of the group was to create culturally relevant and contemporary art projects which were based on different genres and movements. They experimented with innovative approaches to create works that point out society’s need for and the unique potential of contemporary art. With time the artists became more and more active and self motivated. They invited other artists to participate in their shows and performances that did not belonged to the group but whose work was relevant to the goal of the projects. Many institutions of the government and nongovernmental organizations including: National Armed Forces, students of Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music took part in the projects. As a greater number of artists were involved in more frequent events of Octopus art projects; there were more visitors and more support for the activities. Many activities stimulated the founding of the union. In the beginning of 2013 the Art Union Octopus art projects became official. Currently the members of the union are not only the artists but also supporters of the concepts. So far the union has organized local and international projects which have helped to develop new contacts and created a connection between generations. The main goal of the group has not changed. The aim is to continue working to popularize cultural events and promote art projects in Latvia and abroad. In the future the union will continue to support collaboration between creative professions and conversations relevant to culture and art. Octopus art projects will continue to be a platform of communication for contemporary artists.