In a conversation on the Radio Naba program 'Augsne,' project coordinator Elīna Veinšteina from the Daugavpils organization 'New East' and independent curator Tīna Pētersone, co-founder of the Riga Arts Week and producer of 'Liepāja 2027,' explore Latvia's position in the contemporary art landscape of the world, the Baltic region, and Europe. They discuss how cultural life in the capital city of Riga differs from events happening in various regions of the country, highlighting the importance of regional cultural identities.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has shifted global attention towards Eastern Europe, bringing focus not only to Ukraine and Russia but also to other nations in the region. Participants assert that history, traditions, food, and art collectively bind these countries into a cohesive cultural entity. However, the dynamics of the war have prompted a redefinition of Eastern Europe’s cultural axis, moving away from Russia and encouraging other countries to reshape their identities and narratives regarding their cultural significance in this evolving landscape.

The redefinition of the Eastern region and the integration of new traditions are reflected in the initiatives undertaken by organizations such as Daugavpils's efforts to foster local art and culture. As these discussions unfold, they prompt a reevaluation of what constitutes the 'East' and challenge preconceived notions of the region, encouraging a broader discourse on cultural diversity and artistic expression across Eastern Europe in the light of current geopolitical events.