On 27 August 2026 at 18:30, Birkenfelds Gallery (Dēļu iela 2, Riga) will open a retrospective exhibition marking the centenary of the birth of Latvian painter Herberts Siliņš (1926–2001): “Herberts Siliņš – 100. Sea. Colours. Freedom.”
Herberts Siliņš was one of the best-known Latvian painters of the second half of the 20th century. His paintings are characterised by saturated colours, free brushwork and maritime motifs – ports, fishing boats, yacht regattas and coastal villages. His work also includes cityscapes, still lifes and abstract compositions.
In his artistic biography, Herberts Siliņš wrote of himself: “The only artist I have studied under, and whom I still allow myself to correct, is the painter Herberts Siliņš.”
For Siliņš, the sea was more than a subject for painting. He was a member of the Daugava Yacht Club, a keen sailor and captain of the yacht Varavīksne. The exhibition title reflects three elements characteristic of Siliņš’s work – the sea, saturated colour and his free painterly style. The exhibition will feature works from private collections representing different stages of the artist’s career.
Opening programme:
• Speech by Klāvs Vasks, co-owner of the MŪKU SALA business centre.
• Speech by Lauris Apsis, head of Zivis uz Ledus and a supporter of the exhibition.
The opening will also be attended by the crew of the legendary yacht Varavīksne, the artist’s family and 14 collectors of works by Herberts Siliņš, whose support made the exhibition possible.
During the exhibition: the display will be complemented by visual materials offering insight into Siliņš’s personality and his connection to the sea, as well as information about his works held in museum collections in Latvia and abroad.
Venue: ZEISS BIROJI (Birkenfelds Gallery), Dēļu iela 2, Riga
Opening: 27 August at 18:30
Exhibition dates: 28 August–9 October
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 11:00–17:30
Information: Toms Zvirbulis, +371 29141605, www.birkenfelds.lv/en/
