Valentine's Day Atmosphere Created by Sculptor Kārlis Īle's Ice Heart in Kuldīga's Old Town
A large ice block brought from Riga is being transformed into a heart sculpture by sculptor Kārlis Īle in Kuldīga, delighting locals and visitors, especially as part of a Valentine's Day event.
In Kuldīga's Old Town, sculptor Kārlis Īle is creating a heart sculpture from a massive ice block weighing approximately one and a half tons, which was transported from Riga. As he cheerfully mentioned, once the heart is completed, there will be a sense of ease as half a ton of ice is transformed into art. The tools used for this artistic endeavor are impressive, ranging from massive saws to custom-made ice chisels, allowing for intricate design work.
This event marks the second time Kārlis Īle has engaged the Kuldīga community in such artistic creation, a shift from his previous practice of bringing finished works to the location. The local tourism development center director, Jana Bergmane, emphasized the value of witnessing the sculpting process live, suggesting that the hours spent watching the creation were well worth it. The public response has been positive, as many people came out to enjoy the artistry in progress, highlighting the event's impact on community engagement.
Among the spectators were students from the Kuldīga Art School, who expressed admiration for the craftsmanship and creativity involved. Amēlija Reķe, a student, conveyed her appreciation for the experience, noting her lack of knowledge in ice sculpting but emphasizing how inspiring it was to observe. This communal activity not only fostered a love for the arts but also contributed to the festive spirit as the heart sculpture becomes a centerpiece for Valentine's Day celebrations in the town.