English
For 15 years now a unique environmental art object called “Our Port Boundary Wall” can be seen on Meldru Street in the Vecmīlgrāvis neighborhood of Riga. It is a large-scale exhibition of paintings created by local youth along a half-kilometer stretch of the wall safeguarding the Riga Port territory.
The project was launched in 2011 through a collaboration between the Vecmīlgrāvis Residents’ Development Association and the Port of Riga, with the aim to improve the environment in the vicinity of the port as well as to involve local youth in the creation of a shared and resilient urban environment.
Over time, the colors and drawings have lost their original intensity, so last weekend, the creators of the original murals, families living in Vecmīlgrāvis, and representatives of the Port of Riga were invited to collectively restore the paintings created years ago and breathe new life into them.
The art event brought together around 100 participants, who collectively restored the first 27 sections of the exhibition-wall using more than 50 liters of paint. Over the course of five hours, the area was transformed into a creative workshop under the open sky filled with color, conversation, and memories.
“This day once again demonstrated how important this project is to the people of Vecmīlgrāvis. Throughout the day, visitors and passers-by asked about what was happening, inquired when the next sections of the wall would be restored, and acknowledged that it is a true joy to see the port boundary wall shining again in bright colors. “This gives us confidence that we will definitely continue this tradition next year,” said the event organizers.
“It is wonderful to see Vecmīlgrāvis being restored to its former beauty. I hope there will be enough strength and enthusiasm to continue this wonderful tradition year after year,” said the event attendee.
Over the years, the Riga Port wall has become one of Vecmīlgrāvis most recognizable landmarks and a unique open-air exhibition accessible to anyone interested at any time of the year. The project is being developed with the support of the Port of Riga.
Information for media
- [email protected], +371 670 308 53
- Freeport of Riga Authority
- Mihaila Tāla iela 1, Rīga, Latvija, LV-1045
