Solo Exhibition of Painter Justīne Seile

On Thursday, October 4th, the Latvian Academy of Art (LMA) in collaboration with "Semarah Hotels" opened the second art exhibition aimed at supporting young and talented Latvian artists. At the end of each exhibition, "Semarah Hotels" acquires the most popular painting, thus creating the unique art collection "Grand Poet Art Collection."

The exhibition titled "Portraits" by Justīne Seile, a young artist and a master's student at LMA, was opened at the "Grand Poet Hotel" on Thursday. The exhibition showcases several artworks. The paintings depict dramatic, caricatured, and exaggerated situations, reflecting the artist's imaginative world with a touch of humor. They feature peculiar compositions and challenging color palettes.

Justīne Seile, student at the Latvian Academy of Art: "I draw inspiration for my paintings from powerful experiences and real-life events. That's why the main character in my paintings is often myself, a close family member, or a friend. I'm interested in people, their portraits, and bodies. I pay great attention to light and how it creates dramatic situations when interacting with each other, which captivates my attention."

Justīne studied at Ventspils State Gymnasium and attended the Visual Arts Studio in Ventspils, where she took her first steps in painting. She later studied at the Liepāja Design and Art School and is currently continuing her studies in painting at the master's level at the Latvian Academy of Art. Justīne has been holding solo exhibitions since 2014.

Vija Zariņa, painter and associate professor at the Latvian Academy of Art: "Justīne Seile is a young artist who knows exactly what she wants to achieve in her artworks, and she possesses the skills, talent, and knowledge to realize it. Her perspective on things and events in this world is very important. Equally important is the artist's individual style and the expressive means used."

Māris Alnis, General Manager of the "Grand Poet Hotel": "The 'Grand Poet Art Collection,' created in collaboration with the Latvian Academy of Art, aims to inspire and support our young and talented artists. 'Grand Poet Hotel' encompasses tremendous creative energy. By familiarizing ourselves with the works of the most talented young art students, we are convinced that the Latvian Academy of Art possesses a similar driving force. Through this collection, we not only support the creation of Latvian art and introduce Latvia's young talents but also share the story of Latvia as an inspiring and vibrant place with our guests and life enthusiasts from around the world."

In the first exhibition, Madara Kvēpa's paintings were on display. Visitors and hotel guests chose the painting "The Sun Shouted in the City" as their favorite. The painting was acquired by "Semarah Hotels," making it the first artwork in the "Grand Poet Art Collection." The exhibition of Justīne Seile's works and the opportunity to vote for the favorite painting will be available until January 2019.

About "Grand Poet Hotel"
"Grand Poet Hotel" is part of the Latvian hotel chain "Semarah Hotels." The hotel chain currently includes the resort hotel "Lielupe" in Jurmala and two hotels in Riga: the four-star historic hotel "Metropole" on Aspazijas Boulevard and the elegant five-star design hotel "Grand Poet Hotel" on Raiņa Boulevard 5/6. Each hotel has its unique story and values.

"Grand Poet Hotel" was officially opened on May 31st. The hotel's unique "Diplohemia" concept combines design solutions characteristic of diplomacy and bohemia, created by the internationally recognized and award-winning concept and design agency "Stylt Trampoli" (Sweden). The project was developed by the architecture firm "Sarma un Norde" (Latvia), preserving the architectural uniqueness of the building. The hotel's name embodies duality, which is often present in poets - practicality and bohemianism.