J. KIMO ARBAS INSTALLATION "AWAKENING 150“

On Thursday, December 4, at 5:30 p.m., at the M. K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art (V. Putvinskio St. 55, Kaunas), J. Kimo Arbas will present his installation “Awakening 150” accompanied by a live performance.

J. Kimo Arbas’s project is a meditative journey that reflects transformation, consciousness, and renewal. Inspired by M. K. Čiurlionis’s cosmic vision and spiritual sensitivity, Arbas explores the unseen forces that connect nature, memory, and perception. The installation merges the sounds and visuals of the surrounding environment with a ritual-like experience.

During the opening, the artist will perform a site-specific piece created specially for the museum’s inner courtyard. It combines video projections tailored for an intimate setting, immersive soundscapes, and the human voice, conveying a transformative, ritualistic experience. Based on the Baltic cosmogonic concept of the “three worlds” and the museum’s permanent exhibition “Lithuania - The Land of Crosses”, the work reflects the spirituality of ancient eras and contemporary artistic innovation. The performance draws upon ancient Baltic beliefs and mythology, integrating ritual elements that resonate with the sacred symbolism of the crosses. Decorated with suns, stars, and other pagan motifs, these crosses embody the merging of pre-Christian spirituality with later Christian influences, thus powerfully conveying the cosmic and spiritual explorations expressed throughout the performance.

The installation “Awakening 150” concludes the celebratory year dedicated to M. K. Čiurlionis’ anniversary, inviting visitors to view art as a bridge between the material and the sacred, the visible and the invisible.

J. Kimo Arbas is the author of numerous music, film, and art projects, known for his distinctive voice and visionary creative depth. His artistic work spans a wide range of media - from avant-garde vocal performance and film to installations and sacred rituals. Officially recognized by the state as a vaidila (priest) of Romuva, the Baltic ancient religion, and its official representative in North America, Arbas unites archaic spiritual wisdom with the expressive means of contemporary art. His work is marked by consistency, authenticity, and a quiet yet profound impact.

The event is open to the public and may be filmed and photographed. By attending, you agree to be featured in photographs and videos of the event and are informed that these materials may be made public.