Chestnut and the Universe
Riga, Latvia
completed, 2026
Roberts Rūrāns solo exhibition “Chestnut and the Universe” at Zuzeum Art Centre in Riga was on display from February 13 until May 10 in 2026.
commission: Art center ZUZEUM
exhibition scenography & design: Toms Kampars in collaboration with Aigars Mamis (Overpriced)
project TEAM:
Artist: Roberts Rūrāns
Curator of the Collection: Laura Briede
Graphic Designers: Aigars Mamis, Līva Indriķe
Technical Director: Andris Konošonoks
Technical Team: Mareks Ieviņš, Māris Mikāns, Vitālijs Garkalns
Public Relations and Publicity: Katerīna Alijeva, Ance Skolniece
Chairwoman of the Board: Ilze Baumane
Executive Director: Katrīna Jurkevica
Founder of Zuzeum and the Zuzāns Collection: Jānis Zuzāns
production:
Alvis Epners (timber)
Normunds Bērziņš & MAD team (metal)
Aigars Narogs un SIA Gufo (painting)
supporters: Easywood, Caparol Latvia
photos: Ansis Starks, Anna Matule
Chestnut and the Universe presents the work of Latvian artist Roberts Rūrāns, whose colourful and playful imagery often carries a deeper layer of sacred symbolism. The exhibition design responds to this contrast by creating two coexisting spatial worlds: a bright, open exterior and a darker, more introspective centre.
A circular route unfolds around a simple timber structure, gradually guiding visitors through the exhibition in a spiral. Built from donated timber planks and realised with a very limited budget, the scenography relies on one clear spatial gesture and an economy of materials rather than conventional exhibition walls or elaborate construction.
At its centre, an intimate sanctuary presents The Ten Commandments in an almost altar-like setting: a quiet space for pause and reflection within the exhibition.
