Ilgonis Rinkis

The painting captures a moment that cannot be repeated—it is something melancholic, lively, and ephemeral. I believe that is what makes a painting attractive. My work focuses on figurative art and portraiture, where the surrounding environment reflects the inner world of the character. Using a multi-layered oil technique with glazes and textures, I aim to capture the psychological depth of my subjects. I see painting as a life path—an attempt to create a miracle.
As a member of the Florence Contemporary Gallery, my work is deeply integrated into the European contemporary art market, reflecting a dialogue between Baltic expressive traditions and Italian artistic excellence.

Art Academy of Fine Arts, Riga, Latvia (1989–1993) – Intensive study in painting, drawing, and composition.

Mentorship under Bruno Celmiņš and Ralfs Jansons – Advanced oil painting techniques.

Philosophical Studies (3 years) – Immersive study of theology and philosophy in a Dominican Monastery, which deeply informs the metaphysical depth of my current artistic practice.

2025–Present. Gallery Artist / Member. Florence Contemporary Gallery, Italy
2025 – World Art Masters in the 21st Century, Publication Award, World Wide Art Books.

2023 – Winner of the Audience Award, "Painting of the Year" (Schilderij van het Jaar), Amsterdam, Netherlands.

2022 – Winner (Top 40), Artavita Artist Contest; Featured in World Wide Art Magazine (Issue #10).

2020 – Certificate of Artistic Merit, Luxembourg Art Prize 2020.

SOLO EXHIBITIONS
2025 – "Impression" (Impresija), Salaspils, Latvia.

2021 – "Impression" (Impresija), National Botanical Garden, Salaspils, Latvia.

SELECTED GROUP EXHIBITIONS & PROJECTS
2025 – International Group Exhibition, Florence Contemporary Gallery, Italy.

2022 – "Hoop of All", Art Gallery "Riga", Artist Group Exhibition, Latvia.

2022 – "Summertime Delights", Pepney Gallery (Online).

2021 – "Art Days 2021: LAU-80", Virtual Exhibition, Artists' Union of Latvia (LMS).

2020 – "Autumn 2020: The Existing View", Juried Exhibition, Artists' Union of Latvia (LMS).

2020 – "Artist of the Month" (May), ITSLIQUID Group Competition & Presentation.

2020 – Competition Participant, Florence Contemporary Gallery, Italy.

PUBLICATIONS
2022 – Spotlight Magazine (Issue #31), Published by Circle Co...