Valga. Memories and Dreams

Valga Culture and Hobby centre 08.03.–26.04.2024

Valga is on the border in several senses, being split in half by Estonian and Latvian borders, and additionally stands between Võrumaa and Mulgimaa. Border areas are places of meetings and divergences. For Valga, being on the border is primeval, since it was already a place of negotiation in the medieval age, situated between Tartu’s diocese and the lands of order.

Border areas, as Valga, are characterized by differences and contrasts. May it be expressed through national and cultural diversities, rapid and abrupt ups and downs in development or in the urban landscape created as the outcome of the latter, where fulgent grandiosity and close upon mystic nothingness can be seen standing side-by-side. High and low, rotting and sterile remain alongside each other. Furthermore, the transition from one to another can be as simple as crossing the borders of Schengen countries.

Memories and dreams are a borderline phenomena in a sense as well. They are as if on the border of existence and non-existence, here and somewhere far away at the same time. Memories are aimed at the past, but one can dream of the past and the future. However, if one dreams of the past, the memories and dreams can coalesce, allowing the border between them to disappear. It is often expressed that those who lack memories and a past have no future. Does it suggest that the lack of memory also clips the wings of dreams? And vice versa, does a rich memory, whether personal or broader cultural memory, also give impetus to dreams? It's hard to say, the relationship between memories and dreams is likely never as clear and one-sided to give them a definite answer. Yet, pondering such questions may encourage to remember and dream, and that's the crux of the matter.

Comparing different places and regions, we can distinguish those that have developed a solid identity and a well-known image, and others that have not. Both identity and image are usually heavily fueled by the past, which means they are significantly linked to memory and recollections. Although the cultural layer is thick and there is a lot to remember, Valga, situated between Võrumaa and Mulgimaa with vigorous self-awareness, lacks determined identity and image. This can be a double-edged sword. Undoubtedly, it impedes marketing efforts, since there is no well-known brand for people to associate with when visiting Valga. On the other hand, the absence of a clear identity may provide immense freedom for dreaming. In this way, memory is also freed from the obligation to tell a story known to everyone. It is from such an environment that something new and forward-looking could sprout.

The current exhibition explores the nature of Valga through memories and dreams. The artists have moved both in space and in time, and the viewers are presented with paintings, stories and artifacts that take the visitor along with the journey.

Valga is Hedi’s hometown. She associates Valga with people close to her and endless memories. For her, the urban space is shaped by the people who operate there. The beauty of the town is not limited to famous landmarks or fine architecture, the beauty lies in ordinary people and simple moments that over time have created the heart of a home.

Valga has just recently become a home for Danel, however it is not yet clear for how long and what it really means. Nevertheless, he has had a special relationship with Valga for a long time, primarily through architecture and environment. Danel has always been fascinated by places, where identity has yet to develop, but where the cultural layer is plentiful nonetheless, and Valga is undoubtedly one of those.