From Iconoclasm to Dialogue?: Artistic Reinterpretation of Soviet Monuments in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia

• In Event: Monuments, Memory, and Meaning: Contested Heritage in Political Transitions

Abstract

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, newly independent states faced pressing questions regarding the remnants of Soviet rule, particularly monuments and memorials. These sites, far from being neutral artifacts, function as politically charged spaces that shape collective memory and national identity. While the initial post-independence period saw widespread iconoclasm—removing, demolishing, or repurposing Soviet monuments—many contested heritage sites remained, prompting ongoing debates over their place in the cultural landscape. This paper examines how artistic interventions have been employed to navigate the contested legacy of Soviet monuments in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Through case studies of both widely accepted and controversial artistic practices, this research explores how contemporary creative strategies transform Soviet heritage from symbols of occupation into spaces of dialogue. By analyzing public reception, the role of artistic agency, and current public debates this study seeks to better understand what practices can facilitate dialogue in dealing with difficult heritage. Furthermore, the paper touches upon ethical implications of artistically altering existing heritage sites. This paper argues that artistic reinterpretation can (at times) offer a productive middle ground in dealing with contested legacies of foreign regimes. By drawing examples from across the Baltic states, this study contributes to a broader discussion on memory politics and the evolving role of public art in shaping historical narratives.

Author

• Kristina van Kuyck, Dublin City U (Ireland)