Viktorija Pelše, the notable Latvian sculptor, has passed away, prompting expressions of deepest condolences from LSM to her family and colleagues. A farewell ceremony is scheduled for February 28 at 15:00 in the Riga's Rainis Cemetery chapel, where friends and well-wishers can pay their respects to the iconic artist.

Pelše began her artistic career with a monumental animated composition titled "Leopards" at the Song Festival Park in Riga in 1967. She is well-known among residents of Riga and visitors for her work "Daugava" near the Riga passenger port. In the 1980s, her recognition grew as she explored the sensuality of form in creating bronze sculptures of nude figures, depicting both male and female forms, which highlighted her significant contribution to the art scene in Latvia.

Born into a family of Latvian arts and literary scholar Roberts Pelšes, Viktorija Pelše’s educational journey began with a seven-year school in Moscow, and later she graduated from a high school in Riga in 1954. During her studies, she was actively involved in art programs, including attending the art section at the former Riga Pioneers' Palace. She further pursued education in the Energy Faculty of the former Riga Polytechnic Institute from 1954 to 1959, which contributed to her unique artistic vision and style.