Lithuania may be a small country, but it has a rich cultural history that has left a lasting mark on the world of visual arts. From paintings and photography to experimental films and installations, Lithuania’s artists have pushed boundaries, captured history, and brought their unique perspectives to life.
Whether you’re an art lover, an international student exploring Lithuania’s cultural scene, or simply curious about the country's creative side, here’s a list of 10 Lithuanian visual artists who have shaped the art world.
1. Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis (1875–1911) – The Genius of Symbolism and Music
Let’s start with the iconic Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis, a name that resonates not only in Lithuania but globally. Known as a painter, composer, and visionary, Čiurlionis is widely regarded as the father of Lithuanian modernism. His mystical, dreamlike landscapes blend symbolism with abstract art, creating compositions that are as much about feeling and mood as they are about visual form.
If you ever get the chance to visit Kaunas, you’ll want to check out the Čiurlionis Museum—it’s a must for art and music enthusiasts alike!
2. Jonas Mekas (1922–2019) – The Father of Avant-Garde Cinema
Next on our list is Jonas Mekas, a Lithuanian filmmaker and visual artist who made groundbreaking contributions to avant-garde cinema. Known as the father of experimental film, Mekas focused on personal, diary-style films that captured everyday life in a way that was raw and poetic.
I couldn’t find royalty-free photos to share here with you, but you can check the internet for Jonas Mekas and Andy Warhol, Yoko Ono, John Lennon photos, they all were friends. And I believe for most of you, I don’t have to explain who Andy Warhol is.
Although Jonas was primarily celebrated for his films (such as Walden and Lost Lost Lost), his work blurred the lines between photography, film, and visual arts. Mekas captured fleeting moments with the same emotional intensity you might find in great photography. His influence stretches far beyond Lithuania, leaving a legacy in experimental cinema worldwide.
Back in 2010, the Ministry of Fluxus was established as a publicly accessible art project. I believe it was an opening event where I participated as a curious student (yeah, I’m that old), and Jonas Mekas was the guest of honour. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet him in person!
3. Antanas Sutkus (b. 1939) – The Humanist Photographer
Antanas Sutkus is one of Lithuania’s most beloved photographers, and his black-and-white portraits have become iconic. Known for his humanistic approach to photography, Sutkus focused on the lives of ordinary people.
When Jean-Paul Sartre visited Lithuania in 1965, Antanas Sutkus was asked to accompany him to Nida, where a wonderful series of photos was taken. You can see this series of photographs exhibited in Strasbourg or here.
4. Stasys Eidrigevičius (b. 1949) – The Surrealist Illustrator
Lithuania is home to many surrealist and graphic artists, and Stasys Eidrigevičius is one of the best-known figures in this field. Eidrigevičius is recognized for his striking illustrations, posters, and theatrical designs that explore the human psyche through abstract and symbolic imagery.
His surrealist works often convey complex emotional and philosophical themes, providing a visual narrative that can be both unsettling and captivating. His works are still widely admired in Lithuania and beyond. Check this link for his works.
5. Šarūnas Sauka (b. 1958) – Realism with a Symbolic Twist
Šarūnas Sauka is a contemporary painter whose works have left a lasting mark on Lithuanian art. Sauka’s realist style is often infused with symbolic and surreal elements, creating a unique visual language.
His works frequently address themes of memory, history, and the subconscious, often portraying complex human figures and settings that provoke reflection on the darker aspects of life.
Currently, Šarūnas and his wife live in Dusetos, a small village near my hometown in the northeast of Lithuania. They have a museum in Zarasai with multiple artworks! I can’t explain how awesome it is to have such an amazing artist in the neighbourhood!
6. Marija Teresė Rožanskaitė (1954–2007) – Painter and Sculptor
A multi-disciplinary artist, Marija Teresė Rožanskaitė is best known for her abstract and geometric paintings and sculptures. Her work often challenges the traditional boundaries between art forms, incorporating elements of architecture, sculpture, and visual design.
7. Neringa Černiauskaitė (b. 1976) – Installation and Video Artist
Neringa Černiauskaitė is a highly regarded contemporary artist whose works often blur the line between installation art and video. Her explorations of gender, identity, and societal norms are reflected in her dynamic and immersive installations, which often invite the viewer to interact with the space.
For the last couple of years, Neringa has collaborated with Ugnius Gelguda and their creative duo is named PAKUI HARDWARE. They participated in the Venice Biennale, and multiple other events. You can follow them on social media – their works are really impressive.
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These few artists represent just a slice of Lithuania’s rich visual arts scene, which continues to evolve and inspire.
As international students, exploring these artists and their works is not only a great way to connect with the culture but also an opportunity to appreciate the diverse perspectives and innovative ideas that Lithuania has contributed to the world of art.
Whether you’re strolling through an art gallery in Vilnius or reading about these artists online, take the time to dive deeper into their works—you’ll discover a side of Lithuania you won’t soon forget!
Truly yours,
Karolina, OLS Community Manager – Lithuanian