We invite you to visit the solo exhibition “Inspirations” by artist Birutė Šležienė, displayed on the second floor of the Library.
Annotation
_________In her solo exhibition “Inspirations”, which presents a photography cycle created over more than four years, artist and exhibition curator Birutė Šležienė, Lecturer at the Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution, Academy of Arts, expresses what is closest to her: “A woman’s inner world, the different stages of her life, the passing of time reflected in her face. The inspiration for this portrait exhibition comes from Renaissance painters, who portrayed people with dignity and restraint, revealing their inner light. Looking at the works of Dutch painters, I created my own interpretations. It was important for me to choose personalities who genuinely reflect the characters depicted in those paintings, to recreate their clothing, the environment of that era, and to evoke a mysterious, calm atmosphere—one that creates a bridge from the present to the past,” the artist explains.
_________For Šležienė, it is essential to portray the psychological depth of a woman, her spiritual state, and her rich emotional world. This is conveyed through posture, gestures, and poses. Equally important is the woman’s gaze: sometimes lowered modestly, sometimes directed into the distance in search of a far-off horizon, sometimes resting tenderly on the child held close to her chest. In each portrait, a unique story unfolds—the story of a woman, a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend.
_________It is important to note that the artist hand-sews the garments worn by the portrayed women, carefully considering every detail. With the same dedication, Šležienė searches for the right props and selects the appropriate locations for photo sessions. After capturing an image, she retouches it in pursuit of the aesthetic characteristic of Renaissance painting. Her subtle photographs inspire contemporary women to look at themselves with greater confidence and respect for their authenticity.
Ainė Jacytė
Coordinator of Study Fields, Academy of Arts, Faculty of Arts and Education,
Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution
Exhibition dates: November–December 2025
Venue: The Library and Centre of Scientific Communication, Kauno kolegija, Pramonės pr. 22A, Kaunas