On Tuesday, October 23 at Union Station’s West Hall in Washington, DC, former President of Latvia Vaira Vike-Freiberga and Latvia's Ambassador to the United States Andrejs Pildegovics opened an exhibit of Latvia's National Costumes. Ms. Maruta Grasmane, Director of the National Folk Costume Center "Sena klets" of Riga, also spoke about the meaning of the Latvian National Costume. The Washington, DC-area folklore group "Sudrabavots" performed four Latvian folk songs.
Click here to access video footage of the opening ceremony.
The exhibit, organized by the Embassy of Latvia in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia and "Sena klets," will be at Union Station from October 22 through Saturday, November 10, 2007. The exhibit will be taken down on November 10 at 9:00 p.m.
Comments on the exhibit:
"Thanks to the Latvian Embassy and others reponsible for bringing this incredible exhibit to the states. Wow!" (visitor from Helena, Montana)
"A wonderful display of national costumes - I love the colors, embroidered dresses and shawls. Thank you for sharing this exhibit with us." (visitor from Washington, DC)
"I have enjoyed the Latvian collection and the detail that was in place in each garment. Thank you!" (educator)
"I fondly remember Latvia cultural groups participating at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival (in 1998). Thanks for the display of these beautiful costumes."
"One of the best displays I have seen, and I have traveled all over the world. Thank you for blending the past with the present."
"This display is well worth the visit. I am from California and this beats all. The handwork and craftmanship is beautiful and tells a lovely story. Thank you!"
"Lovely clothing selection. I've never seen anything quite like it."
"Thanks for this excellent show - I have many fond memoried of Riga, including the 'Singing Revolution.' I also found the guides to be very helpful." (Washington, DC)
"Never knew about Latvia until I came to Union Station. Very culturally enriching exhibit." (Howard University student)
"Nice to see tradition continuing, even across the waters." (Exton, PA)
"I find it an excellent idea to organize this exhibition. Thank you." (visitor from Hungary)
"An unexpected pleasure! Lovely exhibit, amazing workmanship."
"I really like your costumes. I have never heard of Latvia, but I learned something about it today."