In 2025, Lithuania will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the birth of one of its most prominent composers, painters, and creators, Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis. To mark this occasion, a wide range of events and initiatives will take place across the country, aimed at exploring and discovering the art and life of this extraordinary figure.

One of the most symbolic highlights of this anniversary is the naming of the International Vilnius Airport in Čiurlionis' honor. By a decision of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2029, the airport will be symbolically referred to as the "International Vilnius Čiurlionis Airport." Throughout the jubilee year, physical and digital initiatives will be gradually introduced at the airport to present Čiurlionis’ art and personality interactively to travelers.

The anniversary program will feature over 100 events and projects, including art exhibitions, educational initiatives, book publications, scientific projects, and community and regional activities. These efforts aim to comprehensively showcase Čiurlionis’ personality, creativity, and the context of his life.

The program will span more than 10 Lithuanian cities as well as countries such as Poland, Germany, France, Japan, and others. It will include exhibitions, concerts, events dedicated to his art, and a special Čiurlionis jubilee week.

A key focus of these events is their relevance to contemporary issues. Efforts are being made to ensure that Čiurlionis' art and legacy are not only celebrated in Lithuania but also shared internationally, in collaboration with global institutions, organizations, and Lithuanian diplomatic missions.

Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis: A Bright Star in Lithuanian and European Art History

Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis is considered one of the most remarkable figures in Lithuanian and European art history. A composer, painter, writer, and photographer who lived at the turn of the 20th century, Čiurlionis was active during a time when new artistic movements were emerging. He devoted his entire life to art, seeking answers to universal questions about human existence.

Often referred to as Lithuania's most important artist, Čiurlionis’ work is characterized by extraordinary talent, powerful imagination, a passion for exploration, and a distinctive touch of Lithuanian melancholy.

Čiurlionis was a synesthete—he perceived music as colors and colors as music. This blending of artistic disciplines makes him a unique creator. Many of his paintings are named using musical terms such as sonatas or preludes.

He is often called the first modern Lithuanian. Čiurlionis managed to combine deep Lithuanian symbols and archetypes with a global perspective and inspiration drawn from various cultures. His work reflects the ambition to create universal art that transcends borders.

Although his inspiration came from many sources—from Eastern cultures to traditional art—his primary muse was Lithuania. He collected and harmonized folk songs, incorporating motifs from folk art and mythology. His paintings often feature recognizable Lithuanian landscapes and archetypal symbols.

M. K. Čiurlionis was an active participant in the Lithuanian National Revival movement and one of the first leaders of the Lithuanian Artists’ Association, as well as a key organizer of art exhibitions. His art embodies not only a deep sense of Lithuanian identity but also universal, timeless ideals.

The artist left behind a rich legacy that includes approximately 300 paintings, 700 sketches, and over 200 musical works, such as the symphonic poems "In the Forest" (Miške) and "The Sea" (Jūra), as well as compositions for piano, choir, and organ. Most of his artworks are preserved at the M. K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art in Kaunas.

Source: https://vilnius-airport.lt/en/passenger-guide/international-vilnius-ciurlionis-airport