Survival Kit 2026 in Riga Draws on Ancient Healing Rituals
The Latvian Centre for Contemporary Art in Riga is set to host the 17th edition of Survival Kit from August 28 to September 27, 2026. Curated by Elena Sorokina and Simona Markel Dvorák, the exhibition draws inspiration from an ancient Latvian healing incantation. Since 2020, they have developed a network of artists and cultural practitioners in Paris through initiatives like "Visions of Radical Care" and "Initiative for Practices." Approximately thirty artists will be showcased, including notable works such as "Pain & Other Recyclables" by Egill Sæbjörnsson, Ágústa Oddsdóttir, and Mosi Kristján. Additionally, a school program will feature contributions from Virginie Ittah, Estelle Labes, Maya Minder, and Pia Lindman, focusing on the theme of healing in contemporary art.
Key facts
- The 17th edition of Survival Kit will be held in Riga from August 28 to September 27, 2026.
- The exhibition is organized by the Latvian Centre for Contemporary Art.
- Curators are Elena Sorokina and Simona Markel Dvorák.
- The theme is inspired by an ancient Latvian healing spell called 'Arrow of the Wind'.
- The curators have been running 'Initiative for Practices' and 'Visions of Radical Care' since 2020.
- Around thirty artists will be featured, including historical figures from the late 20th century.
- The installation 'Pain & Other Recyclables' by Egill Sæbjörnsson, Ágústa Oddsdóttir, and Mosi Kristján includes the legacy of Sigríður Björnsdóttir.
- Artists from the Latvian diaspora, such as Daina Dagnija and Imants Tillers, are included.
- The exhibition will have a program for schools and young visitors.
- Works by Virginie Ittah, Estelle Labes, Maya Minder, and Pia Lindman are highlighted.
- The curators aim to reposition healing as a central task of contemporary art.
Entities
Artists
- Elena Sorokina
- Simona Markel Dvorák
- Sigríður Björnsdóttir
- Egill Sæbjörnsson
- Ágústa Oddsdóttir
- Mosi Kristján
- Daina Dagnija
- Imants Tillers
- Virginie Ittah
- Estelle Labes
- Maya Minder
- Pia Lindman
Institutions
- Latvian Centre for Contemporary Art
- Initiative for Practices
- Visions of Radical Care
- Iwantja Arts
Locations
- Riga
- Latvia
- Paris
- France
- Australia
- United States
- Baltic Sea
Sources
- Exibart —