International careers and cross-border cultural exchanges: Transition or continuity in the Baltic art worlds from 1960 until present?

Abstract

Abstract During the Cold War, there were many cross-border cultural exchanges between the western and eastern blocs. Soviet citizens were travelling out of the Soviet Union on group tourism tips and European citizens were travelling into the Soviet Union to source out artistic talent for exhibitions in Western Europe. Due to their histories, the Baltic art worlds are today heavily government funded and are only beginning to develop commercially. However, arts professionals are trying to change this – as after having worked or studied abroad they are returning with expertise and international contacts. These returnees are also, subsequently, more mobile and connected across the European Union. The Baltic States’ histories have had an impact on how current structures operate. This is why it is important to ask whether there has been transition or continuity in the Baltic art worlds since 1960. It is important to look at the development of these art worlds alongside cultural, political and economic changes happening in this region (and across the European Union) in order to see how and why they have changed (or not). Furthermore, an understanding of how Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius art scenes are in transition today cannot be understood fully without situating it within an historical context. More broadly, this article will shed light on the changes (and some similarities) in movements and communications across Europe – throughout history and today.