On 29 September 2026, the international cultural event “Musical Colors of Autumn” took place at the Education Academy of Vytautas Magnus University in Vilnius, Lithuania. The event continued the longstanding tradition of cooperation between Daugavpils University (DU) and the Education Academy of Vytautas Magnus University.

The programme brought together lecturers and students from DU’s Department of Arts and featured a concert lecture and an exhibition of student artworks. The event was organised by Gaļina Zavadska, Lecturer at the Department of Arts, and Vita Mendriķe, Lecturer at Daugavpils University.

The event opened with an exhibition of works by first-, second- and third-year students of the professional bachelor’s study programme “Graphic Design”. The students presented their works and shared insights into their creative processes. The exhibition highlighted their creative development and the professional skills acquired in composition, drawing, painting and studio-based projects. Visitors responded positively to the diversity and quality of the works on display.

The exhibition opening was followed by a concert lecture. In an introductory presentation, third-year students of the “Graphic Design” bachelor’s study programme presented DU’s study opportunities, the content of the programme and the main areas of creative practice.

The musical programme featured works by Georges Bizet, Niccolò Paganini, Jāzeps Vītols, Pēteris Plakidis and other composers. The audience was also introduced to the work and cultural contribution of Latvian and international musicians and composers. Particular attention was given to renowned Latvian composer Raimonds Pauls, who celebrates his 90th birthday this year.

The concert featured performances by Ilona Bagele, Professor at the Department of Arts, Gļebs Beļajevs, Associate Professor, and Igors Ozuns, Lecturer, together with students from the bachelor’s and master’s study programmes “Music” and “Arts Management”.

The event provided an opportunity to exchange creative and academic experience, showcase the achievements of DU’s study programmes and the creative work of its students, and further develop international academic and cultural connections.

The cooperation between Daugavpils University and the Education Academy of Vytautas Magnus University will continue through new cultural events, creative initiatives and opportunities for professional and academic exchange.

Prepared by:
Vita Mendriķe
Director of the Professional Bachelor’s Study Programme “Graphic Design”
vita.mendrike@du.lv