Dzen
Rūta Kalmuka’s series of photographic works, created using analog techniques with a large-format camera, is based on the ancient spring solstice traditions of “driving away birds” and “calling birds,” characteristic of Livonian-inhabited areas. In these rituals, large birds symbolized illness and evil spirits, while small birds were associated with light and awakening. Through photography and butoh movement, the artist interprets this ritual as a metaphor for inner purification – the desire to dispel darkness and make space for a new beginning. The exhibition title “Dzen” simultaneously reveals two meanings: the imperative form “Drive away!” as a call to banish negativity, and a reference to Zen Buddhism, where peace and clarity are sought through silence and repetition.
Rūta Kalmuka (1974) began studying photography in 1992 at the Technical Creativity Center “Annas 2” under Andrejs Grants, and devoted nearly 20 years to photojournalism, working with print media. Currently, she works with analog photography and large-format techniques, and is interested in historical photographic processes as well as creating photobooks. The artist has participated in several group exhibitions in Latvia and abroad, and her work has been published in magazines such as “Foto Kvartāls,” Fotofilmic JRTL, and World Press Photo. In 2025, Rūta was nominated for the prestigious European photography platform Futures.
Opening: 23.04.2026.
Exhibition dates: 24.04. – 02.07.2026.
Exhibition team: Santa Ozoliņa, Elizabete Vuškāne, Inga Brūvere, Eva Škenderska, Agnese Čemme, Aldis Bušs, Aivars Purmals
Exhibition is as part of the Riga Photography Biennial 2026 program.
The exhibition is supported by Riga City Council and the State Culture Capital Foundation.