Paper short abstract:

By combining the theoretical approaches of visual culture studies and research on folklore revivals, the presentation looks at expressions of visual resistance and self-representation of the folklore revival movement in Latvia during the Singing Revolution (1987-1991).

Paper long abstract:

Folklore revival in Latvia took a crucial part in the so-called Singing Revolution (1987-1991) – a non-violent resistance movement that resulted in the restoration of independence of the Baltic States. Part of the cultural opposition was carried out also in the visual realm. Representation in visual terms mattered not only as the self-representational identity consolidation tool of the revival movement but also as the visualization of discontent with the oppressive Soviet regime.

Some of the visual symbols that were used to convey ideas and attract attention to folklore revival had ties with the previously independent Republic of Latvia and thus had been banned during the Soviet occupation; some forms had new meanings and content attached; some were newly created to fit the ideas of the era and the revival.

Combining the theoretical approaches of visual culture studies and research on folklore revivals, the presentation looks at expressions of visual resistance and self-representation of the folklore revival in Latvia. The questions at the focus of the presentation are aimed at identifying what kind of symbols were used, what made some of the symbols carry ideas of resistance, and the meanings behind the visuality.